The Use of ICT in Teaching and Learning at Makerere University : The Case of College of Education and External Studies

Abstract

That many, if not all, universities the world over have made heavy investments in putting up ICT infrastructure is perhaps a clear attestation to the unwavering confidence they have in the ability of ICT to transform the way higher education institutions conduct their core activities. This investment in technology is informed by the perceived advantages it brings to the process of knowledge creation, management and dissemination. Nonetheless, an important question arises out of this; just how exactly do students and faculty use ICT at their disposal? This research project aimed at unraveling this ICT puzzle by investigating how ICT is used at Makerere University College of Education and External Studies. A qualitative case study approach was used with qualitative interviewing as the main data collection tool. Rogers’ (2003) Diffusion of Innovations theory is used as the main theoretical framework forming a backdrop against which data is collected and analyzed to establish why ICT use, a relatively “new” educational innovation, has become pervasive in higher education institutions in general and the case under study in particular and the factors that hamper its further development. The findings of the study show that there is a limited formal academic use of ICT at the College. The latter is primarily used as a tool for preparing lectures, for record management and for socializing. Results also indicate that the ICT environment at the College is fraught with a plethora of challenges that hamper its full integration in teaching and learning.