Exploring teachers’ knowledge and practices in integrating technology into teaching of social studies in junior high schools in the Effutu municipality

Abstract

The study explored teachers’ knowledge and practices in integrating technology into teaching of Social Studies in JHS class in Effutu Municipality. The study was modelled on descriptive survey design with sample size of 48 respondents, made up of 27 Social Studies teachers and 21 ICT teachers. The instruments used to collect data were the questionnaire and interview guide. Frequency count and percentages were used to analyze the data. Mann-Whitney test was used to test the hypothesis. The study found out that technologies like computers, projectors, internet and other audio-visuals could be used to teach Social Studies. Again, it was found out that teachers have positive perceptions of the use of technology in teaching Social Studies although they weren’t sure of how technology positively affected students’ learning. Also, it was found out that there was no significant difference in perception between male and female teachers with regard to integrating technology into the teaching of Social Studies. Finally, the study revealed that teachers face the challenge of unavailability of technology resources, technical support, reliable power supply, internet connectivity and motivation in their attempt to use technology in class. It is recommended that The Ghana Education Service (GES) should organize seminars for teachers to expose them to the various types of technology tools and materials available and how to use them. Again, Ministry of Education should not only make technology resources available in schools, but it should ensure that there are provision of constant electricity, internet connectivity and technical support for the schools. Finally, teachers should be innovative, crea