Teachers’ Perception of Information and Communication Technology in the Teaching of the English Language Essay Writing in Igbo-Eze North Local Government of Enugu-State, Nigeria

Abstract

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become a vital tool of learning a variable that can no longer be ignored in any learning environment. Specifically, the extent of proficiency in the English language for a second language learner was largely dependent on the teacher centered instruction that has made the pedagogical effectiveness of the language instruction presented in the classroom somewhat ineffective. A plethora of literature supports the integration of ICT in both curriculum development and delivery. This study examined teachers’ perception of Information and Communication Technology in the teaching of the English Language essay writing in Senior Secondary Schools in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State. The study investigated the perceived problems of ICT English Language Teachers’ experience while teaching essay writing, how frequently teachers use ICT in teaching, and how ICT has helped students’ performance in English Language examination. Attempt was made to provide answers to three research questions using a descriptive survey research design. The entire population of seventy (70) English Language teachers in the Senior Section within the twenty – two (22) state owned Secondary Schools in Igbo – Eze North local government area was used for the study.  Expert validated questionnaire was used to collect pertinent data and was analyzed using mean and standard deviation.  The result revealed that lack of ICT skills among teachers as well as unavailability and high cost of facilities contribute to teachers’ poor perception of Information and Communication Technology in teaching English Language essay writing. Based on the findings, it is recommended, among others, that the school authorities should create work skills and techniques that could enable English Language teachers acquire the necessary skills in the use of ICT. The government should revisit the curriculum with a view of incorporating the use of computer and ICT – assisted instruction in teaching of English Language in Igboeze Local School District.

Keywords: information technology, essay writing,instructional intervention, curriculum, teaching methodology, English language