Abstract
This study is aimed at providing the reader with a detailed description of the
readiness of teachers to integrate Information and Communication
Technology (ICT) for learning in a selected school in the GautengOnline (GoL)
Project, through qualitative research design that used various data collecting
methods: Questionnaire, observations and interview. A large number of
teachers showed some interest in using ICT learning but had difficulties on
how to get started due to the lack of suitable ICT skills. It has been observed
that computers in this school are mainly used by a few teachers for
administration purposes.
Four teacher participants were interviewed individually to find how ready
were they to integrate ICT for learning after the GoL training has been
completed. The interviews revealed that there was no ICT integration that
was taking place in this school due to training that left them with insufficient
ICT integration skills and knowledge. The research results provided evidence
that there was poor utilisation of ICT integration in this school, though
teachers were interested in using computers.
The research indicated that many teachers are reluctant to attempt to
integrate computers into teaching and learning without ICT teaching
assistance. Teaching assistance may only need to be for a limited period until
teachers gain confidence and competence, although the need for technical
assistance is likely to be permanent.
In the literature review, ideas are given on how ICT can be integrated for
learning and the aims of ICT integration are also provided for teachers to
obtain knowledge of what is required of them in ICT integration. In the final
chapter, recommendations for further research are highlighted to make ICT
integration possible in this selected school. Lack of skills and knowledge of
how to use ICT for learning has led the teachers in this school to take no
notice of how learners can benefit in learning with computers.Clearly, there is still a long way to go before some schools and some teachers
are able to use computers as effectively and efficiently for teaching and
learning. The Gauteng Department of Education and the GautengOnline
project will need to ensure that usage of ICT in individual schools and classes
does not fall below acceptable ICT standards.
Prof. D. van der Westhuizen