CHASING THE EMERGING TREND OF ICT: THE CHALLENGES FACED BY ESL TEACHERS AND THEIR ATTITUDE IN INTEGRATING ICT IN RURAL SCHOOLS OF TATAU DISTRICT

Abstract

The utilization and integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have enabled the establishment of virtual learning environments that are capable of developing English language skills among Malaysian primary pupils. The Ministry of Education had invested a substantial amount of money on ICT as a part of education initiatives to ensure there will be no gap on the quality of education between urban and rural schools. However, the usage of ICT in rural schools could not meet the expectations. This case study takes a closer look at the challenges faced by the ESL teachers and their attitude in integrating ICT in teaching and learning process based on Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). A total of 11 English teachers from 6 rural schools in Tatau, Sarawak were selected based on purposive sampling. Data was collected via questionnaire and calculated using percentage. It was then analysed and semi-structured interview was later conducted. The findings revealed that although teachers’ attitude toward ICT integration in rural school was positive and it had enhanced their performance in teaching and learning, the actual use was the practicality of integrating ICT. The findings also revealed poor Internet connection, limited facilities and infrastructure were the challenges that had influenced their behaviour in using ICT which put a limitation of its usage