Scholarly Research Journal's
Scholarly Research Journal's
Scholarly Research Journal's
Florence Nduku Nguli1, Gideon M. Kasivu2, Ph. D. & Leonard M. Kamau3, Ph. D.
1
Department of Educational Administration & Planning, South Eastern Kenya University,
Email: mukoflo2014@gmail .com
2
Lecturer, Department of Educational Administration & Planning, South Eastern Kenya
University
3
Lecturer, Department of Educational Communication & Technology, South Eastern Kenya
University
Abstract
1.Introduction
According to The World Summit on the Information Society (2006), the main objective of
introducing ICT under the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology was to
fight poverty and contribute towards realization of Sustainable Development Goals. ICT has
impacted on the quality and quantity of teaching and learning in that it provides opportunities
for distance education where students, academic and non-academic staff can communicate
with one another more effectively whether during formal or informal working. Integrating
variables are key internal predictors of technology integration (Becker,2000). The researcher
consequently observed that few teachers integrate ICT into their teaching activities despite
the increased availability of ICT hardware, school-related support for ICT integration, and a
larger consciousness of teachers about the importance of educational ICT use. This is a clear
indication that there are other factors, other than availability of technological infrastructure
that seem to contribute to teachers’ successful technology integration. Teacher demographics
refer to data related to the population of teachers.
Teacher demographic factors in this context entails to: age, gender and level of education,
The related literature reviewed depicted that age affects teachers’ effective adoption and use
of the new technology in teaching and learning (UNESCO, 2014). Chemwei and Koech
(2014) found that young teachers in the age bracket of 25-30 years seem to have higher
interest in integration of ICT in teaching. The young teachers show great enthusiasm in the
adoption and use of computers in their private and in public life and this enthusiasm dwindle
with age (Kamau 2014). The older generation of teachers experience challenges when using
ICT in teaching (Guoyuan, 2010).
1.1 Statement of the Problem
Information from Machakos county education office (2015) state that the level of ICT
integration is low. ICT integration in teaching in the schools in Machakos Sub-County has
remained very low and so is the academic performance (Mwunda 2014). Despite
government initiative on provision of computers through CFSK. Studies closelly related to
this , were done by Atandi (2015) in Nakuru county and Sang et al (2010) who did his study
on primary teachers in China which is a different context.Little has been done on the
influence of the teacher demographic on integration of ICT in teaching in ICT champion
schools in Machakos Sub –County. It is against this backdrop that the researcher sought to
carry out this research to establish the influence of teacher demographic on ICT integration in
teaching in ICT champion schools in Machakos Sub –County.
1.2 Objectives of the Research
The study was to establish the influence of teachers’ age on ICT integration in teaching in
ICT champion schools in Machakos sub-county. To determine the influence of teacher’s
gender on ICT integration in teaching in ICT champion schools in Machakos Sub County and
to investigate the influence of teacher’s level of education in ICT integration in teaching in
ICT champion Schools in Machakos Sub- County.
sustainability male teachers. Inspite of the fact that technology is growing very fast, access
and gender differences have been linked to low levels of computer acceptance. In an
evaluation of its programme in four African countries, World link international found that
despite efforts to make ICT programme gender neutral, gender inequalities in access persist
in Uganda and Ghana.
In Kenya, the ratio of men to women using ICT according to 2001 estimates stood at 70%
and 30% respectively. It is also argued that the disparity was partly attributed to the
perception in the country that ICT was a technical subject suitable for men, with many
females shying away from it.
2.3 Influence of teacher’s level of Education on Integration of ICT in teaching
The study conducted by Lau and Sim (2008) explored the extent of ICT adoption among
secondary school teachers in Malaysia and revealed that level of teachers’ academic
qualif1.ication influences ICT integration in teaching.) From the study of Luhombo (2015)
on Teacher factors influencing integration of ICT in teaching of English in public secondary
schools in Mumias Sub-County, it can be revealed that age, gender, academic qualification
determine the adoption of ICT for English lessons in Mumias sub-county. Clark (2000) found
a strong relationship between teachers’ level of education and their attitude towards adoption
of information technology. It is not clear whether teachers’ demographics such as age,
gender and level of education influence integration of ICT in teaching in Machakos Sub-
county. This study will identify the gap and fill it.
3.0 Materials and Methods:
This study used mixed methods research design which involves collecting, analyzing and
integrating quantitative and qualitative research. This kind of approach to research is used
when integration is perceived to provide a better understanding of the research problem than
either of each alone. According to Creswell and Plano Clark (2006), explanatory sequential
mixed method is best suited this design whereby collection and analysis of quantitative data
was followed by the collection and analysis of qualitative data. Priority was given to
quantitative data, because quantitative data collection was done first and represented the
major aspect of the study, while qualitative component followed in the second phase of the
study (Ivankova et al., 2006) and the findings were integrated during the interpretation phase
of study.
Quantitative data in this study were closed ended questionnaires which were analyzed
statistically to test hypotheses. This research was deemed to be appropriate because by
mixing both quantitative and qualitative research , the researcher gained in breadth and
depth of understanding while minimizing inherent weaknesses emanating from using one of
them( John & Onwuegbuzie, 2004). There is also the advantage of triangulation which allows
one to identify aspects of phenomena more accurately by approaching it from a different
vantage point using different techniques. It also provides an approach for developing better,
context specific instrument. Helps to explain the findings prudently and validate them.
Results
4.0 Influencesof Demographic Factors on ICT Integration as Reported by Teachers
2.1 Influence of Age
Out of 124 respondents, in the 51-60 years age category, 1(7.1%) was unfamiliar with ICT
integration 4(28.6%) in each category were beginners and newcomers in integrating ICT in
teaching while newcomers there was no teacher in the age bracket who was at an advanced
and expert level. A cross tabulation of age and integration of ICT by the teacher was carried
out and analyses are presented in Figure 1 below.
70
60
50
Number of Teachers
40
30
20
10
0
Figure. The level of ICT competence among different ages of teachers in Machakos Sub
county.
In the 41-50 years age category, majority 7(58.5%) were at beginners’ level in integrating
ICT in teaching while 3(25.0%) and 2(16.7%) were average and at an advanced level in
integrating ICT in teaching. However, there was no teacher who was at an expert level in
integrating ICT in teaching.In the age category of 31-40 years, the distribution across the
level of integration showed that many teachers were average 12(31.6%) compared to those at
Copyright © 2017, Scholarly Research Journal for Interdisciplinary Studies
Florence Nduku Nguli & Dr. Gideon M. Kasivu & Dr. Leonard M. Kamau
(Pg. 11377-11389) 11383
beginners and advanced levels who were 8(21.1%) in each level of ICT integration. Only 2
(5.3%) teachers in this category were at an expert level. Further, the study reveals that
teachers of the ages 20-30years had formed large proportion of those who were at least at an
average level 19(31.7%), advanced level 18(30.0%) expert level 11(18.3%) in integrating
ICT in teaching. None of the teachers in this age category was unfamiliar with integrating
ICT. The study sought to test the statistical significance of these observations using a chi
square test and findings are presented in Table 4.5.2
Table 1: Chi-Square Tests between Ages
From Table 1, the chi square test of dependence between age and integration of ICT had a
significance of .003 compared to the p = 0.05. Considering that the significance was a value
less than 0.05, it means that at 5% level of significance integration of ICT was dependent on
age of the teachers with young teachers being more likely to adopt ICT.
Table 2. The correlation matrix showing the R pearson of the ICT competences of teachers in
Machakos sub county. The results show the young teachers have a higher correction to ICT
competency.
Unfamiliar Newcomer Beginner Average Advanced Expert
Unfamiliar 1
Newcomer 0.960769 1
Beginner -0.18898 0.090784 1
Average 0.071982 0.345788 0.96583 1
Advanced -0.14286 0.137253 0.998906 0.976893 1
Expert -0.34487 -0.071 0.986912 0.911393 0.978291 1
Further, the influence of Gender of teachers on ICT integration was analyzed with the
summary of findings shown in Table 4.5.3.
Table 3: Influence of Gender on ICT
Level of ICT Integration
Unfamiliar Newcomer Beginner Average Advanced Expert Total
Males 1 6 9 20 17 10 63
1.6% 9.5% 14.3% 31.7% 27.0% 15.9% 100%
Females 2 7 20 19 11 2 61
3.3% 11.5% 32.8% 31.1% 18.0% 3.3% 100%
0.8% 10.7% 23.8% 32.0% 23.0% 9.8% 100%
Copyright © 2017, Scholarly Research Journal for Interdisciplinary Studies
Florence Nduku Nguli & Dr. Gideon M. Kasivu & Dr. Leonard M. Kamau
(Pg. 11377-11389) 11384
From the findings, the proportion of male teachers who were average 31.7%, advanced 27%
and expert level at 15.9% was larger than for female teachers within the similar levels.
Further Chi-square analyses were conducted to test whether there was a significant difference
in ICT integration based on gender. Table 4.5.4 summarizes the findings.
Table 3: Chi-Square Tests showing the influence of Gender on ICT integration
Value Df Asymp. Sig. (2-sided)
Pearson Chi-Square 20.148a 10 .028
Likelihood Ratio 17.250 10 .069
Linear-by-Linear Association 7.942 1 .005
N of Valid Cases 124
a. 3 cells (12.4%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is .01.
The chi square statistic, the computed value .028 is less than the p value .05. This implies that
at 5% level of significance integration of ICT was dependent on gender of the teachers hence
the null hypothesis is rejected. Qualitative data from principals was also analyzed and it was
realized that the outcome was consistent to those of quantitative data.
It was imperative to analyze the relationship between the levels of education and integration
of ICT in teaching. From Table 4.5.5, majority of teachers who participated in this study were
at status ranging from the level of beginners, average to advanced level of ICT integration
across all the three (Diploma, B. Ed. and M. Ed.) most observed academic qualifications.
Table 4: Influence of Level of Education on ICT Integration in teaching
Level of ICT Integration
Unfamiliar Newcomer Beginner Average Advanced Expert Total
Diplo 0 3 4 3 1 5 16
ma 0.0% 18.8% 25.0% 18.8% 6.3% 31.3% 100%
B. Ed 1 9 21 32 20 8 91
1.1% 9.9% 23.1% 35.2% 22.0% 8.8% 100%
M .Ed 1 1 4 3 5 0 14
7.1% 7.1% 28.6% 21.4% 35.7% 0.0% 100%
BA/B 0 0 0 1 0 0 1
SC 0% 0% 0% 0%
with
PGDE 0% 100% 100%
Other 0 0 0 0 2 0 2
s 0% 0% 0%
(Speci
fy 0% 100% 0% 100%
Totals 1.6% 10.5% 23.4% 31.5% 22.6% 10.5% 100%
A Chi-square test was conducted to test the null hypothesis that there is no statistically
significant relationship between level of education and ICT integration in teaching in ICT
champion schools in Machakos Sub –County. The results are presented in Table 4.5.6
Table 6: Chi-Square Testsshowing the Influence of Level of Education on ICT
Integration
Value Df Asymp. Sig. (2-sided)
Pearson Chi-Square 26.441a 20 .048
Likelihood Ratio 24.495 20 .221
Linear-by-Linear Association .024 1 .877
N of Valid Cases 124
a. 14 cells (24.0%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is .02.
The Pearson Chi-Square statistic, (2) = 26.441, and p < 0.048. Since p < 048 is less than
0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected.
1.9 Discussion
1.9.1 Influence of Age on Integration of ICT
In terms of age it was found out that there is a significant relationship between age and
integration of ICT in teaching in ICT champion schools in Machakos Sub –County.
Integration of ICT was found to be dependent on age of the teachers with young teachers
being more likely to adopt ICT than the old teachers. The findings are consistent with the
findings of the principals who alluded that young teachers integrate ICT in teaching with a lot
of enthusiasm and the enthusiasm dwindles with age.The findings are consistent to the
findings of Makgato(2012),UNESCO (2014) and Lentilalu (2015) who alluded that old
teachers who are comfortable with the traditional way of teaching do not want new and
innovative methods of teaching. Old teachers use of technology though they perceive it as
useful is limited by ease of use because their experience with technology is very short,
bearing in mind that most of them as evidenced by this research did not have both pre –
service and in-service training in use of ICT in teaching. This can be boosted through
training and constant sensitization to sustain ICT use.
1.9.2 Influence of Gender on Integration of ICT
On gender, it was established that 51% were males while female respondents were 49%.From
the findings, the proportion of male teachers who were average 31.7%, advanced 27% and
expert level at 15.9% was larger than for female teachers within the similar levels.These
findings are consistent with those of principals who posited that male teachers frequent in
integration of ICT in teaching than the female teachers.
1.9.3 Influence of Level of Education on Integration of ICT
The level of education results indicate that majority of the teachers (73%) had bachelor of
Education Degree as their highest qualification. This was followed by those with Diploma
(14%) and master of education degree (11%). The study established that,Teachers at higher
levels education were found to be at higher level of integration. This implies that there is a
significant relationship between level of education and integration of ICT in teaching in ICT
champion schools in Machakos Sub –County. There is consistency between the data from
teachers and the one from principals who alluded that the rate of integration increases with
the level of education. The findings are also in line with the study by Clark (2000) who
argues that teachers in higher levels of qualification especially masters level used ICT in
there learning. They perceived it as useful and easy to use, intended to use it and the actual
ICT use was good compared to those in lower levels. Continuous training will help to make
the situation sustainable since technology is dynamic and there is need to keep updating.
2.0 Conclusion
Based on the findings the study made the following conclusions guided by the study
objectives; the first objective was to determine the relationship between teacher’s age, and
ICT integration in teaching in ICT champion schools in Machakos sub-county. In regard to
age, the study found that age of teachers influences the integration of ICT in teaching. The
findings indicated that teachers aged below 30 years were more willing to integrate ICT in
teaching. Results from chi-square test also indicate that, (2) = 34.901, and p < 0.003; there
is a significant relationship between age and integration of ICT in teaching. Thus, to bridge
the difference between the age brackets, there is need for more training, increased exposure
and the use of incentives. With respect to gender, female teachers lagged behind in
integrating ICT in teaching and results from chi square test also indicate, (2) = 20.148, and
p < 0.028; there is a significant influence of gender on integration of ICT. The study found a
statistically significant relationship between the level of education and integration of ICT in
teaching with (2) = 26.441, and p < 0.048. There is need for continued support for the
teacher to pursue higher qualifications since it improves their use of ICT in teaching.
2.1Recommendation
Based on the study findings, the researcher makes several recommendations;Firstly, the
government should introduce compulsory computer training preferably on the job training for
teachers to equip them with ICT competencies and skills. This training should be done in a
way to ensure teachers of the same age bracket are trained together to ensure their individual
differences are met. Need for clear policy guidelines and effective commitment to training
and integrating ICT in teaching. Such a policy must have clear and positive incentives for
participating in ICT in-service training.
More sensitization workshops are needed to deflect the negative attitudes as well as increase
the appreciation of integration of ICT in teaching by teachers. This can be organised by the
Ministry of Education (MOE).
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