Assessment of computer technology availability, accessibility and usage by Agricultural Education student teachers in secondary schools in Botswana.

Abstract

This study examines the availability, accessibility and usability of computer as a form of information and communication technologies (ICTs) by student teachers in secondary schools. 44 out of 51 student teachers of Agriculture responded to the questionnaire. Means and percentages were used to analyse the data to establish the availability, accessibility and usability of computer technology in schools. The results showed that teachers’ computers were available in schools. The majority of the respondents were females: 38.6% had taught Agriculture in schools located in urban areas, while 31.8% had taught in rural-located schools. Half (50.0%) of the student teachers had taught for a period of eleven to twenty years while more than two-thirds had taught for less than ten years. The results revealed that student teachers were deficient in appropriate skills and knowledge for making use of available computer technology. Furthermore, the results indicated teachers have minimal knowledge and skills on computer and then learn how to use computers through in-service training, short courses and workshops. Based on the findings, the pre-service curriculum needs to be improved so that teachers can be more competent in using advanced technology to improve students’ learning. In-service courses on ICT should be provided to all teachers as a requirement to enhance teachers’ technical skills in the field.