MAIN BARRIERS THAT RURAL SCHOOLS ARE FACED WITH IN INTEGRATING ICT IN TEACHING AND LEARNING

Abstract

The implementation of Information Communications Technology(ICT)to enhance and facilitate teaching and learning in education is a challenge to many schools. Understanding the issues regarding encouragement, support, and required infrastructure to achieve ICT integration is a complex exercise. Government sectors and private institutions donate computers and other ICT equipment on regular basis to schools in an endeavour to equip rural schools and to bridge the digital divide in rural schools. However, the rural schools are not utilizing these donated ICT tools (projectors, interactive whiteboards,and related technologies) which is of concern. Hence the study investigated factors that hinder the successful implementation of ICT in rural schools in Rekopantswe Area. Quantitative research methodology was employed in this study and questionnaires were used to gather data from Area manager, circuit managers, subject advisors,Curriculum Coordinators, Principals, Educators, and Learners from different schools in Rekopantswe Area office. Data was coded and prepared for analysis using a Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS). The analyses of the results show that most schools do not have an ICT implementation plan. ICT plans and budget needs to be in place in order to address factors that hinders the successful implementation of ICT in rural schools.