Challenges Facing Teachers And Students In The Use Of Instructional Technologies: A Case Of Selected Secondary Schools In Kisii County, Kenya

ABSTRACT

This study was concerned with the challenges facing secondary schools‟ teachers and students in the use of instructional technologies. The rationale was based on the view that properly designed, learning materials inspired by instructional technology and delivered by technology add value to a teaching environment on which contact hours are limited. This is because the curriculum needs academic standards and the development of digital age skills for the 21st century learners. The literature review focuses on the meaning of instructional technology, the use of instructional technologies in teaching and learning in institutions in other parts of the world as well as Kenya, however, the challenges faced in the use of instructional technologies in secondary schools have not been addressed. This was a descriptive survey design. The study was conducted in ten (10) provincial public secondary schools in Kisii County. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedules and observation schedules. The obtained data were analyzed systematically using descriptive statistics and presented with the help of frequency tables, graphs and percentages. The study findings revealed that most of the instructional technologies were available but inadequate in terms of quantity. Not all the instructional technologies were easily accessible for both teachers and students for teaching and learning processes. The use of instructional technologies was influenced by their availability, how the technology will enhance learning, knowledge and skills on use, syllabus requirement, accessibility and administration among others. Further, that the teachers‟ academic and professional qualifications had little influence on how successfully the teacher uses instructional technologies for teaching and learning. Finally, teachers and students faced several challenges such as teachers having limited skill on use of some instructional technologies, inadequate instructional technologies, inadequate funds and lack of support from the school‟s administration whereas students revealed among others lack of accessibility and overcrowded classrooms which need resolutions. The Ministry of Education together with all other education stakeholders need to come-up with strategies to curb this menace.