ABSTRACT VIEW
Abstract NUM 1041

WEIGHING THE PROS AND CONS OF ICT IN SOUTH AFRICAN LIFE SCIENCES CLASSROOMS
S. Siroqo, X. Khalo
University of Fort Hare (SOUTH AFRICA)
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools have become an imperative part of the educational system. With the learners of today so fascinated with technological devices, teachers can use that to their advantage to enhance their teaching strategies by using ICT tools. A 21st-century teacher, currently in the digital age, should familiarize themselves with the use of ICT tools in their teaching. However, studies show that South Africa is lagging behind in the implementation of ICT tools for teaching, especially in rural and under-resourced public schools, as compared to other countries. This study seeks to address the research question: Why is it important to use ICT tools in teaching Life Sciences, and the limitations of using ICT tools in the teaching of Life Sciences? This paper is guided by Technology Pedagogy and Content Knowledge as the theoretical framework of this literature review study, wherein seventeen peer-reviewed journal articles have been reviewed. Based on the literature reviewed, findings included the lack of ICT Infrastructure, hindering the effective integration of technology into teaching and learning in resourced schools, and the underutilization of Existing Resources. Even in schools with ICT facilities, teachers are not using these resources effectively due to a lack of training or confidence. Factors such as malfunction, lack of technical support, and limited access to digital resources may pose significant barriers to the successful implementation of ICT tools in Life Sciences education. In conclusion, a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with ICT integration in Life Sciences education, particularly in the South African context, may positively contribute to the successful ICT integration in all schools.

Keywords: Information and Communication Technology, ICT tools, Technology Pedagogy and Content Knowledge, underutilization.

Event: ICERI2025
Track: Digital Transformation of Education
Session: Digital Transformation
Session type: VIRTUAL