An investigation into factors affecting teachers use of ICT in an Irish post primary school : a case approach

Over the past number of years there has been a move towards using ICT. This study explores factors that affect post-primary teachers use of ICT in the teaching and learning environment. The researcher used a case study approach to investigate ICT use in a recently established community school in Ireland. A self-administered questionnaire was issued to all teaching staff (n=70). A random sample of teachers (n=7) were interviewed on their ICT practices and attitudes towards using ICT. School management were also interviewed to asertain their views on ICT use within the case study school. The results recorded show that there is a high level of ICT use in the case study school. Factors identified as affecting teachers use of ICT in the teaching and learning environment were identified. The following factors were found to affect ICT use in the case study school - positive attitudes towards using ICT, level of ICT training and support, lack of time, lack of a detailed ICT policy, both teachers and managements’ attitude towards using ICT, easy access and availalbility of ICT hardware and software and the teaching group. The study did not identify teacher pedagogy, age and gender as significant factors affecting teachers’ ICT use in the case study school. The paper concludes by noting that while there may be significant benefits and potential in the use of ICT in the teaching and learning environment it is important to understand the factors that affect teachers’ willingness to embrace and use this technology. If educators are aware of the factors affecting ICT use it allows both teachers and management to continue to progress and develop their ICT use in the teaching and learning environment.