Assessing the challenges facing information and communication technology (ICT) in Tanzania Primary schools: A Case of Dar es Salaam Region

This study focused on assessing the challenges facing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) subject teaching and learning in public primary schools in Dar es Salaam. The study was guided by three research objectives: to examine availability and quality of ICT infrastructure and facilities in primary schools; to examine availability and quality of ICT subject teachers in primary schools; to asses the methods used for teaching and learning ICT subject in primary schools; and to explore the strategies to be used to improve the teaching of ICT subject in primary schools. A total of 164 respondents were involved in the study and were obtained through Stratified simple random, convenience and Purposive Sampling. The data was generated through document analysis, observation, interviews and questionnaires. Analysis of data involved both qualitative and quantitative procedures.The findings unveiled that all the primary schools under study had shortage of ICT infrastructures and facilities. ICT teachers were not enough when compared to number of students and were not competent in teaching the subject and schools had either none or had poor ICT laboratories. In view of the research findings, the study has concluded that poor availability and quality of infrastructures and facilities, lack of resources are the major hindrance towards effective ICT teaching and learning in schools. However, a number of schools have been making efforts to launch a favourable environment for teaching and learning of ICT. Finally, the study has recommended for the government through the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training as well as Non-Governmental Organizations and private companies to engage fully in supporting ICT teaching in terms of funds, experts and infrastructures and facilities in order to improve teaching and learning of the subject