Technology integration for out-of-school time learning: The roles of teachers

Abstract

This study investigated the roles of teachers towards technology integration for out-of-school time (OST) primary school learners. The study was conducted in three peri-urban districts of three regions in Tanzania, which are; Mwanza, Arusha and Dar es Salaam. Teachers of 11 best schools one from each division of these districts were purposeful selected as respondents. The study used a multi case study design with mixed approach. The study began with a preliminary study at a school that used educational technology in teaching where the experiences of the respective teachers in encouraging pupils to use educational technology in OST were solicited. These experiences were the basis for constructing the questionnaire that was administered to 83 teachers of the 11 schools. The Results of this study revealed that, among other things, the use of digital tools as teaching aid and communication tool by teachers encourages pupils to use the educational technologies at OST. It was concluded that, full participation of teachers as champion of technology integration is vital to hasten technology integration in OST. Government and other stakeholders are recommended to facilitate the capacity building that equip teacher with skills and knowledge necessary for OST educational technology integration.

Keywords: Out-of-school time, technology integration, primary school learners, primary school teachers’ roles.