An investigation into the challenges facing information Communication technology implementation in secondary Schools in Maua sub-county, Meru county.

Abstract

Implementation of ICT in schools in Kenya is a recent activity that has elicited a lot of interest. However, there are many challenges that hamper efficient implementation including cost of infrastructure, electricity, teachers’ skills and leadership. The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges facing ICT implementation in secondary schools in Maua sub-county, Meru County. The objectives of the study were: To evaluate how school administration support effective ICT implementation in secondary schools; To evaluate the strategies being used by teachers to implement ICT in secondary schools; To find out the challenges to effective ICT implementation. The study employed descriptive survey. Systematic sampling techniques were used to select five schools. Eight (8) teachers were randomly selected from each school for the study giving a total of 40 teachers since there was no public secondary school with less than 8 teachers. 5 Principals and 5 deputy principals were purposely selected from the five selected schools to have a total of five principals and five deputy principals. The total sample size for the study was 50 respondents. This was 19.23% of the target population. Data from questionnaires was analysed. Qualitative data was first organized into themes, then descriptive statistical method was used after frequencies and percentages were calculated from the data obtained in the field. This information was presented on tables to make its interpretation easier and clearer. The data was then presented using tables, bar charts and pie-charts. The study found that Administration affects implementation of ICT through corruption, lack of proper management. They also affect ICT implementation through recruitment of unqualified teacher who lack basic computer knowledge. The main strategy that was being used to implement ICT was teaching of student’s basic computer knowledge and skill. Teachers were also taking students to schools that had already implemented ICT in their schools in order to change and improve students’ attitude towards ICT. Finally teachers sensitized students on importance of integrating ICT in education. There were five main challenges that were facing ICT implementation in secondary schools. These challenges were Lack of electricity supply, High cost of ICT facilities, High cost of maintenance, Lack of interest in computer and Poor school management.