Use of information and communication technologies in higher education in Kenya

Abstract

In this study, I investigated how Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are applied in higher education in Kenya. Research questions were; 1) What is the level of self-efficacy and ICTs integration into higher education in Kenya? 2) What is the level of awareness and adoption of ICTs in higher education in Kenya? and 3) What factors enable or hinder utilization of ICTs in higher education development?

Mixed method research was applied where 81 questionnaires and 8 semi structured interviews were carried out on lecturers and students.

Staff and students were competent in regard to ICTs. Access to ICTs resources in private universities was better than in public universities. Most students and faculty were competent with the common software but competence in regard to specialized softwares was poor. ICTs were used for teaching and learning though the adoption was poor mainly in public universities. Barriers to effective utilization of ICTs in higher education included absence of reward systems, lack of policies, poor support and limited financial resources.

In conclusion, the demand for higher education in Kenya surpasses the physical resources at the disposal of higher education institutions in the country. The use of ICTs is essential to ensure that quantity and quality of higher education with the limited resources. Universities therefore need to have their top leadership supporting ICTs plans and strategies, have policies regarding the use of ICTs and have support for ICT tools.