NEW PARTNERSHIP FOR AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT ELECTRONIC-DEMONSTRATION SCHOOLS AND INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY-ENABLED EDUCATION IN THE WAMUNICIPALITY, GHANA.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD) Electronic-Demonstration Schools in the context of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)-enabled education in the Wa Municipality of Ghana. In particular, the study investigated the NEP AD E-demo schools and ICT enabled education along the following six dimensions; ICT enabled education in NEP AD E-demo schools; How ICTs help expand access to education; The extent to which the use of ICTs prepare individuals for the challenges of the 21st Century; How ICTs help to improve the quality of education; How ICTs transform the learning environment into one that is learner-centered; and How ICTs bring about equity of access to education. The study involved 500 respondents, consisting of 110 teachers and 190 students randomly selected from four public Senior High Schools in the Wa Municipality. Data was collected using a questionnaire consisting of 100 items, some of which consisted of statements to which the students and teachers were required to agree or disagree to reflect their feeling and experience towards NEP AD E-demo schools and ICT enabled education and an interview with 12 items. The results of the study were analyzed using percentages and chi square. Analysis was done using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results of the study indicate that, only one school was chosen in the Wa Municipality and provided with ultra modern computer laboratory equipped with computers with 24 hours internet connectivity and e libraries to enhance effective teaching and learning. ICTs were identified as tools that improve quality of both teaching and learning ultimately enhancing ICT enabled education. The introduction of the NEP AD E-school project in Ghana and specifically in the Wa Municipality had a demonstrated benefit for the future of students through the acquisition of technology and academic skills, collaboration and global awareness.