Assessment of the Availability and Barriers of ICT for Teaching and Learning in Schools of Mizoram

Abstract

The covid-19 pandemic forces the schools and teachers to carry on teaching though online mode since there is no other alternatives during lockdown periods. The world is going through the technological revolution and adoption of new technologies in the education system across all levels of education across the world. This study investigates the availability of ICT in schools, and the barriers of using ICT in schools, using schools in Mizoram, India as a case study. It was observed that availability of ICT facilities (computers and accessories, internet connectivity, digital devices etc.) need to be improved. The research also identified the barriers that are hindering the ICT utilization in schools, among them are Lack of funding, Insufficient number of internet connected computers, not enough computers, Insufficient number of the interactive whiteboard or any other educational software, Outdated, incompatible or unreliable computers. Recommendations were put forward on how to improve ICT availability and utilization. Conclusions were drawn from the findings.