AN ASSESSMENT OF THE USE OF ICT ON TEACHING AND LEARNING IN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS OF THE NORTHERN REGION OF GHANA

Abstract

The study examines the use of lCT for teaching and learning in SHS in the Tamale Metropolis in the Northern Region, Ghana. The study specifically considered the use of lCT by teachers and students, the impact of lCT on teaching and learning and challenges to the use of lCT by teachers and students. The study adopted both qualitative and quantitative research methods where 216 teachers, 377 students and 5 headmasters were sampled from Presbyterian SHS, Vitting SHS, Ghana SHS, Kalpohin SHS and Tamale Islamic SHS. Two separate questionnaires were designed, one for teachers and the other for students while heads were interviewed. The study found that students frequently use lCT for watching movies and for browsing but did not use it for learning. Teachers used lCT to search for teaching materials and to communicate with students, parents and colleague teachers. Teachers however did not use it to monitor students' performance and do on-line discussion with students during vacations. lCT had positive significant impact on academic performance of students. Teachers and students had challenges with the use of lCT and these included frequent light out and unreliable internet access. The study recommends that lCT education should be integrated into education sector plans and policies. Teachers should be re-trained to have the necessary skills and interest in lCT to support implementation of K'T education. Government should increase investment in ICT education to enable all SHS have the required infrastructure for lCT education and the culture of maintenance should be emphasized to ensure sustainability of lCT infrastructure. Emphasis should be placed on using lCT by students for accessing learning materials, playing games and typing.