Strategies for Improving the Utilization of Information and Communication Technologies in Bulucheke Senior Secondary School

Abstract

The aim of the study was to develop guidelines for improving utilization of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Bulucheke Senior Secondary School Library. The study was guided by objectives that include: to assess the current status of ICTs Bulucheke Senior Secondary School Library, to examine the importance of Utilization of ICTs, to identify the challenges influencing ICT utilization, to find out the factors that could enhance ICT and to come up with a strategy for enhancing utilization of ICTs in Bulucheke Senior Secondary School Library. The study adopted a methodology that involved the use of a case study research design. Purposeful and simple random sampling which were used to configure a sample size of seventy (70) respondents. To collect data, the study adopted Interview, Questionnaire and Observation data collection methods. Based on the data collected and analyzed, findings revealed that: the commonly available ICT facilities in the library were computers, video tapes, scanners, photocopiers and printers; users were not satisfied with the ICT facilities available in the library, some of the barriers to effective utilization of ICTs in the library were inadequate funding, low level of computer literacy among the staff, inadequate ICT infrastructure and low level of ICT awareness among users, users of the library use ICTs mainly for accessing educational information, keeping a variety with current news, events, Internet browsing, down loading and storing information for personal use and for word processing. The study findings concluded that BSSSL lacks guidelines for improving the utilization of ICTs and it was therefore recommended that the BSSSL should adopt and implement the proposed guidelines for improving the utilization of ICTs in the library. Basing on the findings and conclusions of this study the researcher recommends that, BSSSL should ensure that the following recommendations are put into consideration; more funding of the library, Provision of orientation programs on ICT utilization in the library, preparation of ICT related workshops and seminars, acquisition of more ICT facilities and ensuring of full time power supply in the library.