Factors Affecting Low Use Of ICT In Teaching And Learning Of Development Studies

In the teaching of secondary schools in Lesotho,the relevance and efficacy of the educational approach are heavily taken into account.ICTs are encouraged to be used in teaching and learning in modern education.However,in recent years,it appeared that the use of ICTs in teaching and learning had slowed down in Lesotho.The study examined the use of ICTs during COVID-19 to date in Lesotho.This study was meant to investigate the current status of ICT-use in schools,factors affecting use of ICTs and the practical solutions to low use of ICTs in Lesotho secondary schools.The theoretical framework and conceptual framework acted as an important tool to provide a platform for the investigation of underlying factors responsible for low use of ICTs in the teaching and learning of Development Studies in Lesotho.Moreover,the literature reviewed in this study revealed the negative factors triggering into the low use of ICTs in teaching and learning in Lesotho and other countries like Mauritania,Kenya,Namibia and Ethiopia.A qualitative approach facilitated the acquisition(via interview)of evidence from the selected sample of 6 government officials,12 teachers,6 principals,24 students.The sampling has been aimlessly/randomly and purposely chosen.The objectives of the study were realized through the involvement of total of 48 participants who contributed towards the success of the research.The research revealed that ICT-use is low because of teachers’ inability to use ICTs,low self-esteem and negative perceptions towards use of ICT devices.The efficacy beliefs,computer illiteracy and negative perceptions of students hindered ICTs in their learning.The inability of the government and schools to provide resources and support to teachers and students also contributed a lot to the problem.Furthermore,some suggestions were proposed.Teacher quality should be improved through trainings,both pre-service and in-service.The school management and the Mo ET should improve the ICT infrastructures and increase access to ICTs through collaborating with network companies.The government is also supposed to play a crucial role to support the schools financially.