The Role of Information and Communication Technology in Public Sector Administration: The Readiness of the Local Authorities in the Arab Sector in Israel.

Abstract

This research paper investigates the readiness and integration of ICT in local authorities' administrative processes and service delivery. This is an important topic to explore, given the technological stalemate that is currently witnessed in the Israeli Arab localities. This has caused a significant hindrance to the successful fulfillment of public administrative functions in a rather "technologically advanced" country in the Middle East. Essentially, this research aims to review the incorporation of ICT in the Arab sector in relation to the articulation of the same in Jewish localities. To obtain these results, this study explores qualitative and quantitative research designs, interviews, and surveys with stakeholders and teachers in Arab schools. The results from this research will be used to examine the preparedness level of the Arab public sector in harnessing ICT potential. It also assesses the challenges the local authorities face in leveraging Israel's ICT potential by specifically focusing on the level of digital literacy Arab education sector. The data findings indicate a low-to-moderate degree of ICT integration among teachers, highlighting the importance of pedagogical knowledge and attitudes toward change in facilitating successful ICT implementation. Further, the study contributes to the understanding of ICT utilization in public sector administration and provides recommendations for overcoming obstacles and improving ICT practices in the Arab sector of Israel.