Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in secondary educational institutions in the uMhlathuze municipality, South Africa : an insight into their utilisation, impact, and the challenges faced

Abstract

In order to cope with the demands that stem from our modern day, information-based global economy, present day school leavers need to be equipped with skills that would allow them to meaningfully contribute towards their respective working and social environments. The ability to utilise ICTs effectively is of paramount importance, as they enable individuals to continuously adapt to change and to develop the skills associated with life long learning. Recognising this, the South African government has pledged that all school children will be able to utilise ICTs by 2013. This study, which forms part of a more comprehensive study amongst both learners and staff in secondary schools in the uMhlatuze municipality, reports on ICTs and their utilisation, impact, and the challenges faced amongst learners from secondary schools in the Umhlatuze municipality. The findings reveal that while various ICTs are available in most of the schools, accessibility is still a problem. As educational tools, their impact is still negligible, and numerous challenges were identified. Yet despite these drawbacks, the learners expressed an eagerness and willingness to enhance their ICT skills and utilise the tools for their own empowerment.