Challenges of using ICT tools in teaching social studies in Nakolo Junior High School in the Paga East circuit of the Kassena Nankana West district

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess the benefits and challenges of using ICT tools in teaching Social Studies in Nakolo Junior High School in the Paga East Circuit of the Kassena Nankana West District in the Upper East Region of Ghana. This study used a case study design. Quantitative research approach was used. The population for the study was eighty five (85) teachers in the Nakolo Junior High School in the Paga East Circuit of the Kassena Nankana West District in the Upper East Region of Ghana. Census method was used to select eighty five (85) respondents for the study. Questionnaire was the main instrument used to gather primary data. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse data. The study results indicate that 84.3% of the respondents agreed that they find it easy to adapt to changes that the introduction of new ICT software use to bring in their teaching and learning. Also, 84.3% of the respondents agreed that teachers are able to use new ICT introductions in their teaching of the subjects without much difficulty. The study findings indicate that, 86.8% of the respondents agreed that the use of practical teaching methods can improve students skills in ICT subject. The study findings highlighted 95.1% of the respondents agreed that inadequate teaching and learning materials or computers and accessories for practical demonstration ICT lessons is a challenge teachers face in implementing ICT curricula. The study concluded that, inadequate ICT teachers’ competencies and necessary skills in ICT subjects affected students’ academic performance. The study recommended that the government through the GES should procure the necessary ICT infrastructure for their schools to enable the teachers and students benefit maximally in the ongoing technological development and ICT contribution in educational advancement.