Introducing information and communication technology (ICT) in Government Schools: educational challenges and opportunities (special reference to Ampara District)

Abstract

ICT is an increasingly powerful tool for participating in global markets, promoting political accountability, improving the delivery of basic services and enhancing local development opportunities. In Sri Lanka, Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) is the single apex body which involves in ICT policy and direction for the nation. This research paper aims at assessing ICT usages in Government schools which have high impact on the education sector. It is important to discuss the ICT in the educational sector with the key issues and implementation bottlenecks in country like Sri Lanka. Primary Sampling Units (PSU) are Government schools. Secondary Sampling Units (SSU) are school principals and ICT teachers. This study is a complete survey which covers all government schools in Ampara District. Data were collected by primary source using questionnaire. Secondary data were also collected from Census Report. Descriptive statistics, correlations and regression analysis techniques were used to analysis the data. Assessing ICT usages in Government school is inevitable especially in Eastern Province. This research assesses ICT usages and its implementation bottlenecks and its related issues. Lack of computer lab, lack of ICT teachers, cost of computers and components, less motivation towards ICT, lack of IT & English literacy and lack of Internet connectivity were identified as the primary bottlenecks. Identified typical issues were related to ICT implementation. Possible suggestions were also put forward to the relevant Government bodies for their future implementation.