Information Communication Technology Tools Research Articles

Rural Libraries as Providers of Life-long Learning Opportunities: An Appraisal of Information Services and Facilities in West Bengal

Abstract The purpose of this study is to examine the services and facilities provided by rural public libraries in West Bengal, India. In addition, the study aims to evaluate the perceptions of librarians regarding the implementation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) applications in these libraries. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methods to gather data. The primary method of data collection was a survey using a structured questionnaire, which was administered to a total of 102 rural libraries. Furthermore, interviews were conducted with the respective librarians to bring more objectivity to the results. The findings revealed that rural libraries possess a moderate collection of printed books, newspapers, and magazines. The results indicate that these rural libraries offer a diverse range of services and facilities that benefit their respective communities. However, findings of the study indicated an acute shortage of staff in almost all the surveyed libraries, with this factor, consequently, affecting services. One significant challenge faced by these libraries is the lack of ICT applications. Nevertheless, most librarians expressed positive attitudes towards the implementation of ICT in rural libraries, recognizing their potential to enhance library services and reach out to a wider audience. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that the government should provide the necessary ICT tools in order to provide ICT-based library services. The results of this study can contribute to the upgrading and restructuring of rural library collections, infrastructure, services, and facilities in developing countries.

Information and Communication Technology as a Determinant of Organizational Performance: A Study of Banks in Delta/Edo States

This study investigated information and communication technology (ICT) as determinant of organizational performance of selected commercial banks in Delta and Edo States, Nigeria. Cross-sectional survey design was used and one hundred and eighteen (118) questionnaires were administered to employees of four (4) commercial banks in Delta and Edo States. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive, diagnostic and inferential statistical tools. The regression results indicated positive and significant relationship between information and communication technology usage and improvements in organizational performance in areas of enhanced quality of service delivery, productivity, and customers’ base. On the basis of the findings, it was recommended that commercial banks should expand the usage of information communication technology tools in their business processes in order to become more competitive and improve service delivery to customers, enhanced productivity and customers’ base. More importantly, commercial banks should strengthen their policies and procedures on information and communication technology targeted at retaining IT staff. Also, commercial banks should ensure an up-to-date training of IT staff to keep them abreast of current trends in the ICT environment.

Dimensions of Accessibility and Use of Information Communication Technology Among Cocoa Farmers in Atwima Mponua District, Ghana

This research examined the drivers of accessibility and use of information communication technologies (ICTs) by cocoa farmers. A sample size of four hundred (400) cocoa farmers was selected using a multi-stage random sampling procedure. Data were analysed using percentage, means, standard deviation, Kendall’s coefficient of concordance and multiple linear regression model. The study revealed that mobile phones, radio and television are the most available (=4.99, 4.95 and 4.85 respectively), accessible (=4.97, 4.83 and 4.40 respectively) and utilised (=4.97, 4.81 and 4.30 respectively) ICT tools by cocoa farmers. There is a relatively high level of availability of ICT (=3.57), a moderate level of accessibility (=2.90) and low use (=2.19) of ICT tools. Cocoa farmers mainly used ICT tools to acquire information on their cocoa farm activities (=4.82). Gender, age, education and farmer-based organisation participation affected farmers' accessibility of ICT tools. Age, education and farm experience significantly affected farmers’ use of ICT tools. The greatest challenge faced by cocoa farmers in accessing and using ICT tools is a lack of skills in operating the tools ( rank=2.24). Training on ICT use should be intensified by all relevant stakeholders to enable cocoa farmers to increase their use of ICT tools.

ICT and social media digital initiatives for effective dissemination of Soybean technologies

In India, the use of social media and ICTs has gained popularity in the last decade consequent to the digital revolution. In line with these developments, the ICAR-Indian Institute of Soybean Research has started use of social media platforms like WhatsApp, YouTube and Facebook etc. for dissemination of information related to the improved soybean production technologies developed by the Soybean R&D system and facilitating feedback mechanisms among the clients and their interaction with the research system using different ICT tools. Institute has also developed many software to use the potential of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) in best manner. These ICT tools help the farming as well as scientific community in solving different problems and improve and issues as well as for decision making in real time situations.

Problem Faced by the Farmers in Using Information Communication Technology Tools for receiving Rice Production Information

The facilitation of technology transfer to farmers plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity within the context of Bangladesh. In relation to this matter, a study was undertaken to evaluate the extent of problems faced by the farmers in utilizing Information Communication Technology (ICT) technologies for accessing rice production information. Data were collected from randomly selected 340 ICT tool using rice farmers of four selected districts of Bangladesh. The results indicated that majority (66.2%) of the rice farmers faced severe problem, compared to 27.9% and 5.9% of them faced moderate and low problem respectively in using ICT tools for receiving rice production technologies. Based on Standardized Problem Faced Index, top five severe problems were lack of ICT knowledge of farmers, high cost of internet packages, lack of training in using of ICT tools, high cost of ICT tools and required more time to learn using ICT tools. These problems may be minimized by providing necessary training to the farmers on using ICT tools for receiving rice production information, cost reduction of internet package and ICT tools, providing better internet connectivity, uninterrupted power supply as perceived by the farmers.

Women Entrepreneurship Development through ICT in Developing Countries: Problems & Prospects

It is widely known that women’s economic empowerment can lead to economic growth. Information communication technologies (ICTs) have been promoted as tools for national development. In this context, women have been promoted themselves as entrepreneurs through connecting more people by using ICT tools effectively. This paper mainly focuses on the role of ICT for women entrepreneurship development in Bangladesh. It also represents different social, cultural barriers women face in using ICTs in their business purposes. To make the study more effective questionnaire method was used. For this study 100 women have been selected from different online business pages and sent them the questionnaire. Among them 20 women entrepreneurs respond the questionnaire which included questions on role of ICT, training on ICT, mostly use of device, monthly income, availability of ICT institutions, access of ICT, barriers of using ICT and so on. It is argued in the study that women are becoming adapt themselves with technology especially in their business purpose and lead to contribute to the country’s economy. Lack of awareness, social, cultural structure are the major barriers to bring them as entrepreneurs and change their life. Social Science Review, Vol. 39(3), Dec 2022 Page 17-35

From Observation to Active Learning: A Collaborative Learning Approach for Object Oriented Programming Course

Abstract: Collaborative learning using Active Learning Strategies (ALS) and Information Communication Technology (ICT) tools in programming subjects facilitate the studentsinstructors into effective ways to make everyone engaged in Teaching Learning Process. In such learning, learners required to respond one another’s ideas. Teachers are the key players in collaborative learning process by launching the learning environment, accommodating student requirements and ensuring the classroom activities. In this study, benefits of ALS and ICT tool usages have been analyzed for the Object-Oriented Programming course offered to engineering undergraduates. The impacts are analyzed in terms of teaching methodology, practicing lab, pass percentage, course outcome attainment, internal and terminal test performances and course exit survey. The outcomes indicate that, ALS and ICT approach yields positive result in performance. Keywords: Collaborative Learning, Active Learning Strategies, Information and Communication Technology, Online Learning, Object Oriented Programming, Course Outcome, Pedagogy.

Specific Gaming Features in an Interactive Powerpoint on the enhancement of Grammar Skill

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education becomes more prevalent in the 21st century, more emphasis been placed on developing teachers' competence in English language teaching, particularly in grammar terms. Teaching and learning in the 21st century have advanced and shifted from pen and paper to use of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) to help in the process of imparting knowledge and skills to the learners. Use of the information Communication Technology tools like computers, laptops, printers, scanners, software programs, data projectors, and interactive teaching box has made teaching and learning efficient and interesting. This study sought to determine the influence of selected gaming features in interactive PowerPoint in teaching of grammar skills among primary school students. The study adopted design of a narrative research model as it offers the respondents to give in-depth information about their experiences and allow the researcher to make independent observations. The study used observation schedule and interviews to collect data from a sample of 12 respondents teaching primary level English subject in a sub urban school in Pulau Tikus district, Penang, Malaysia. The study used thematic data analysis whereby the use of interactive PowerPoint gamming features in teaching primary school students significantly promoted good learning skills like lettering pronunciation, reading, spacing of words, coloring and joining of letters. Despite the positive outcomes of ICT utilization, teachers cited inadequate teaching resources and limited teacher training. The study recommends that teachers to be supported by adequate teaching and learning resources for efficient ICT utilization.

Does the use of ICT by Teachers Influence Learners’ Academic Performance during the COVID-19 Environment?

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) use in the education sector has gained momentum ever since the outbreak of the COVID – 19 pandemic. This study critically analysed the use of ICT tools by secondary school teachers to ascertain if they had an influence on learner academic performance during the era of the COVID – 19 pandemic. A mixed approach which employed both the use of quantitative and qualitative research methods was used to collect data for this study. The finding of this study showed that information communication technology tools have a positive influence on improving academic performance. The study recommended that schools should be provided with enough and relevant resources needed to make a huge impact on education. Teachers and facilitators should be trained on the best use and pedagogies which involves the use of ICT in teaching and learning. In addition, the Ministry of Education and Skills Development Botswana and all the concerned education stakeholders need to make sure that ICT teaching and learning workshops are conducted in every educational sphere so that every teacher, facilitator and learner is well equipped with the appropriate use of technology to achieve the desired results. The results of this study advised on the use of ICT to improve learner academic performance. . Keywords: Academic performance, Technology use, Technology adoption, Learners

Use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in Library and Information Science Education and Research

With the advent of advanced technology, ICT has revolutionised the way academics perform their work, helping them to deal with larger datasets and improve the outcomes of their investigations. The main objective of this study article is to obtain a better understanding of how ICT can be used in LIS education and research. For the study, a survey design was used. Out of 303 students and research scholars from BBAU, BHU, and AMU, 179 respondents were chosen using Raosoft (Sample size calculator). The questionnaire was the only data collection tool used in both online and offline modes. Microsoft Excel was used to analyse the responses. The study’s findings showed that most students and research scholars use ICT tools in their education and research work. This study also focuses on integration regarding the use of information and communication technology, as well as what may improve the status of the education and research sectors by using ICT and how ICT can help in stress reduction in various aspects among students and research scholars. Students and research scholars would benefit from the study because it would contribute to scholarly research and fill a gap in the literature on the use of information and communication technologies.

Challenges in Implementing ICT Tools in Water and Sanitation Services Management in South Africa

This article discusses challenges encountered in implementing Information Communication Technology tools in water and sanitation services management in South Africa. This qualitative study used a Human Capital Development framework. The study area has had limited consultation on Information Communication Technology tools, low Information Communication Technology usage, and skills gap. Attention is paid to the effective use of Information Communication Technology tools, for example, mobile phones and their application to address the challenges faced. This promotes proper water and sanitation services management by implementing relevant tools to increase the knowledge and skills of service providers. South Africa needs to address and eliminate challenges experienced in implementing Information Communication Technology tools, inequalities, and human-made challenges to ensure availability of services and sustainable water and sanitation services management.

Stakeholders’ Perceptions of ICT Integration on KCSE Chemistry Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Kisumu County, Kenya

Information Communication Technology (ICT) integration is embraced in education to improve the quality of learning and performance globally. In 1996, the Ministry of Education in Kenya directed secondary schools to introduce computer studies into their curriculum. In 2006 (with studies having demonstrated a positive correlation between ICT integration and performance), under its national ICT policy, the ministry encouraged ICT integration in education using even basic infrastructure, including mobile phones and the Internet. It jumpstarted the program with grants for ICT equipment to 5 schools in every constituency in the republic. Chemistry is expected to benefit more because the versatile ICT tools concretize concepts and enhance the learning of its abstract content. This study aimed to assess stakeholders' perceptions of ICT integration on Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) Chemistry performance. The study was anchored on the 'stimulus and response' theory involving Teacher Quality, Instructional Quality, and Student Outcome. A descriptive survey and a sequential exploratory design were used. Quantitative analysis of data was done using descriptive statistics that included frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Findings indicated that stakeholders had positive perceptions that ICT integration improves performance, but teachers seldom used it in instruction. The study concluded that all schools should have instructional websites and go digital with all their pedagogical activities.

Use of Information Communication Technology Tools and Teacher’s Performance in Rwanda: A case of secondary Schools in Rulindo District

Use of Information Communication Technology Tools and Teacher’s Performance in Rwanda: A case of secondary Schools in Rulindo District

The Implication of Using Information Communication Technology to Present, Comment on and Discuss Student Work on the Outcome of Students Performance: Evidence from Turkey

Turkish Higher Learning institutions have embraced ICT skills in teaching and learning to ensure career readiness among learners. Information Communication Technology tools provide the opportunity for educators to address problem-solving and project-based learning in both face-to-face and blended learning. However, there have been issues of educators’ awareness and skills in utilizing the technology tools in the instructional processes. The purpose of the study was to establish the Outcomes of Technology Integration in Instruction by Higher Learning Institutions in Asia with a focus on Turkey. The paper was a literature based in which comprehensive review of existing literature on technology integration in Education was interrogated to come up with study themes. The empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and conclusion drawn based on the reviewed literatures. The study found that factors that influenced integration of ICT in the primary teacher training colleges in Turkey included: adequacy of internet connectivity, adequacy of computer hardware, adequacy of computer software, maintenance of ICT infrastructure, training of personnel in ICT, teacher workload, teacher gender, teacher age, presence of ICT policy and adequacy of fund. Additionally, lecturers were found to be aware of the relevance of Web 2.0 tools for instructional purposes. However, they highlighted low internet speed as the main challenge in their efforts to integrate technology into their instructional activities. This research contributes to the area of TPACK (Technology Pedagogical Content Knowledge) by highlighting the application of computer-related technologies into classroom instruction and how such technologies are matched with learner-centered instructional strategies to enhance learners’ 21st century skills that are essential for career readiness. This paper concludes that integrating technology in instruction will serve as a strategy for leveraging education in Turkey if first-order barriers such as insufficient ICT infrastructure, limited ICT competency among teachers and tutors and lack of comprehensive ICT training are addressed effectively. The study recommends that, the managements of higher learning institutions in the country should provide teachers with regular trainings and seminars on how to adopt ICT in the teaching and learning process. Key words: Technology integration, higher learning institutions, ICT, Turkey

In-Service Science Teacher’s Perceptions Towards the Use of Information Communication Technology Tools in Teaching and Learning in a COVID-19 Environment

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) have been growing incredibly for the past twenty years in most sectors; however, much needs to be achieved within the education fraternity itself. Teachers are still relying on traditional teaching methods and Botswana is currently far behind in benefiting from ICT usage in the classroom. This study critically analysed the ICT infrastructure found in Botswana’s secondary schools, assesses teachers’ skills, knowledge, confidence, and their perception of the integration of ICT in teaching and learning. A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data from 350 respondents. The results revealed that ICT use and integration in Botswana secondary schools during the Covid – 19 period posed some challenges even though it was beneficial to an extent where there was learner academic improvement. This has been influenced by factors such as lack of skills, lack of confidence in the use of technology by teachers, and lack of ICT equipment in schools. The study recommends that schools should be equipped with the relevant ICT infrastructures, have adequate resources, and that facilitators should be trained on the right pedagogies and use of ICT in teaching and learning. Furthermore, curriculum developers should integrate ICT teaching in subject areas. The findings of this study will contribute to the correct pedagogies and best practices of teaching, and how issues teachers found in technology use can be solved and addressed amicably for the benefit of the greater masses. The educational stakeholders can make use of these findings to improve knowledge and attitudes toward the successful adoption and implementation of information and communication technologies in teaching and learning during the pandemic. Keywords: technology adoption, in-service teachers, perceptions towards

Influence of Teachers’ Variables for The Utilization of Information Communication Technology (ICT) For Social Studies Instruction in Basic Schools in West Mamprusi Municipality of the North East Region, Ghana

This study examined the influence of teachers’ variables for the utilization of ICT for Social Studies instruction in Basic Schools in the West Mamprusi Municipality of the North East Region, Ghana. Three research questions were formulated to achieve the research objectives. The researchers adopted the combined paradigm or the mixed research design, administered questionnaires and solicited opinions through interviews. Descriptive survey was used by the researchers to seek and analyzed information from pupils and teachers’ of Social Studies in the Basic Schools in the West Mamprusi Municipality of the North East Region, Ghana. Ten (10) Basic Schools were randomly selected for the study. Thirty (30) Social Studies teachers, one (1) each from basic seven (7), eight (8) and nine (9) as well as sixty (60) pupils, two (2) each were selected from basic seven (7), eight (8) and nine (9) using purposive and random sampling respectively. The result of the findings indicated that most teachers of Social Studies do use ICT in the teaching of Social Studies. However, there are a number of challenges militating against their frequent use of ICT in the teaching and learning process such as the large nature of the classes they handle, insufficient time for the organization of ICT tools and equipment, financial constraint to purchase some ICT tools and equipment for teaching and learning purposes, and lack of support from school administration for ICT use. Based on these findings, recommendations were made that teachers should be orientated on the use of ICT tools and equipment through attendance of seminars, workshops and conferences and that government through Teacher Education Division of Ghana Education Service should support Social Studies teachers in the basic schools within the West Mamprusi Municipality financially for improved efficiency on their use of ICT to promote effective teaching and learning. Teaching time table should be flexible to allow teachers to organize fix ICT tools and equipment in their respective schools to bring about effective teaching and learning.

Frequency of Utilization of ICT Tools by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Scientists of Rajasthan State, India

Information communication technology (ICT) is a multidimensional term for information technology (IT) that addresses the role of integrated communication and the integration of telecommunications (telephone lines and wireless signals) and computers as well as essential enterprise software, middleware, storage, communication which enable users to access, store, transmit and manipulate information. ICT’s is emerging as an important tool for the progress of society. The new technology has significantly improved lifestyle and efficiency levels in all sectors of the economy. This enables the utility of information & communication technology to overcome physical distances and time gaps in communication. Rapid improvements in information technology have increased their cost and space requirements, speed and storage capacity in a short span of time with traditional communication materials such as posters, charts, leaflets, folders, bulletins, audio tapes, transparency, photographs, prepared slides, videotape etc. In simple terms, ICT is a set of techniques evolved to manage information and move it from one place to another. It has been observed that in this traditional system used to take a lot of time to convey the information given to the farmers and the information was not received correctly. The rapid development of information technology has given a new look to communication systems. Now connecting two computers across the country has become an easy task. Separate ICT projects have been initiated by government, NGO’s and private companies. As a result, villages in many parts of the country have been connected through a wired network to eliminate the distance between rural and urban people. Krishi Vigyan Kendra are established by Indian Council Of Agricultural Research (ICAR) all over the country as an institutional innovation for application of agricultural science and technology on the farmer’s field with the help of multidisciplinary team i.e. Senior Scientists and Subject Matter Specialists. Who give skill or knowledge oriented training to farmers in multidisciplinary areas like Horticulture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Home Science Agriculture Extension, Agronomy, Plant Protection Entomology/Pathology and Agriculture Engineer. The result of the study depict that the frequency of utilization of ICT tools by scientists for the farmers the tool which is utilized maximum by the KVK scientist is Smart phone, Internet and WhatsApp with (x = 5.00) and Rank-I and the minimum utilized by scientists Agri Guru, Mahadhan App, Agro medix agriculture app, Farm Key were not very frequently used ICT tools with (x= 0.21, 0.17., 0.7,.0.00). Rank L,LI,LII.LIII,LIV.

ICT and Women's Health: An Examination of the Impact of ICT on Maternal Health in SADC States.

Attainment of sexual and reproductive health is regarded as a human rights matter. Notwithstanding this, maternal mortality continues to be a major public health concern in low-income countries, especially those in sub-Saharan Africa. Maternal mortality remains high in Africa, yet there are information communication technologies (ICTs) (such as the internet, mobile communication, social media, and community radios) that have the potential to make a difference. Making effective use of all of these ICTs can considerably decrease preventable maternal deaths. ICTs, particularly mobile devices, offer a platform for access to health information and services that can bring change in areas where health infrastructure and resources are often limited. However, for Southern Africa, maternal mortality remains high despite the presence of ICT tools that have transformative potential to improve maternal health. In light of this, this study sought to examine the impact of ICT on maternal health. The study was quantitative in nature, and it used panel data that covered the period from 2000–2018. The Mean Group and Pooled Mean Group cointegration techniques and a generalised method of moments panel technique were used for estimation purposes. Results showed that ICT has a negative effect on maternal health. This shows that ICT tools contribute positively to maternal health. The study gave a number of recommendations. The mobile gender gap should be closed (digital inclusion), mobile network connectivity boosted, and digital platforms must be created in order to enhance the transformative potential of ICT in improving health outcomes.

Online Learning: ICT-Based Tools for Interaction and Effectiveness

COVID-19 has been a challenge in all sectors and education in particular. During the pandemic, there was an immediate and compulsory shift in conducting classes via online mode. Several colleges and schools have asked their teachers to hold classes online, yet most of them are neither equipped nor in the mindset to adapt to this new teaching methodology. Despite these limitations, Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and other platforms have become integral parts of lecturing and learning. Subjects have been taught using these platforms. Despite the challenges, classes are still held online and teachers are still able to reach students. It is important to note, however, that there are some notable challenges across all sessions that remain unnoticed and unresolved. In an online environment, controlling students' absences, engaging all students in discussions, monitoring their presence, keeping them active, conducting assessments, and nurturing creativity are all questionable. Research is needed to initiate and incorporate different ICT (Information Communication Technology) tools to facilitate effective teaching and learning. The purpose of this paper is to identify the various ICT tools and resources that can be used to support the above-discussed problems and make online teaching and learning more effective.

Using Youtube Video Clips of Different Themes To Enhance Students' Listening Skill in an Emi Class

<p><span lang="EN-US">These days, ICT (Information Communication Technology) tools have been increasingly applied in an EFL (English as a foreign language) class. In a class with students of mixed-ability level, the use of additional materials like ICT tools would be useful to boost students’ motivation. This study aimed to examine the effect of You Tube video clips of different themes on students’ listening ability in an EMI (English as Medium of Instruction) class. The treatment was 7 You Tube video clips of different themes added to the course instruction. A pretest-posttest one group design was conducted and students’ evaluation questionnaires were delivered to 31 students. The results showed that students had significant improvement in the post-test results and they also had positive attitude towards the use of You Tube video clips. Additionally, the students seemed to enjoy the clips of novel and humorous topics and they suggested more applications of video clips in the classroom for the next course. Implications were provided for further practices with video clip instruction in the future</span></p>