Information and Communicatio Technology in Mathematics Education - Integration Readiness in Tanzania Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

The use of ICT tools in mathematics instructions has been proved to have a positive impact on students’ success. However, little is known about the ICT readiness of both teachers and students to incorporate these tools in mathematics teaching-learning process. This study investigates the readiness of teachers and students to integrate ICT in mathematics teaching and learning at a higher education institution in Tanzania. Specifically the study assesses the device, skills and psychological readiness of teachers and students to integrate ICT tools in mathematics instructions. The study employs both qualitative and quantitative methods whereby data are collected through interviews and questionnaires respectively. Seven teachers and 129 bachelor degree students pursuing business studies, form the study population. Descriptive statistics are used to analyze the quantitative data while qualitative data are analyzed through content analysis. Results show that teachers and students have device, skills and psychological readiness to integrate ICT in teaching and learning of mathematics. This is significant as it provides information that will be useful in planning the use of ICT tools to benefit teaching and learning. This study contributes to transfer and diffusion of technology discourses.