The Status of Preparedness of ICT User Training and Skills Development in Implementing Curriculum through Online Distance Teaching and Learning in National TVET Institutions in Kenya

Abstract

There is immense pressure for online courses at TVET institutions. In order to address this demand, TVET institutions are required to implement a responsive curriculum for training through online mode. Incidentally, the rise in technology applications allows institutions of learning to adopt ICT in providing education and training. Despite the importance attached to online teaching and learning, the preparedness for the same has continued to face several setbacks in TVETs in Kenya. The study’s purpose was to assess the status of ICT user training and skills development preparedness in supporting the implementation of curriculum through online distance teaching and learning at national TVET institutions in Kenya.  The study was anchored on Bruner’s constructivist learning theory. It collected data from three national polytechnics, where trainers in Applied Sciences Department, trainees, heads of department and principals were the main respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. A sample size of 248 respondents, comprising of 3 principals, 3 heads of department, 35 trainers and 207 trainees was selected. The sampling techniques adopted included purposive sampling to select trainers, HODs and principals; and stratified sampling technique for trainees. The validity and reliability of research instruments were ascertained accordingly. Percentages, mean and standard deviation were conducted on quantitative data; while, thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. The study findings show that ICT user training was crucial for effective curriculum implementation of online teaching and learning in national TVET institutions in Kenya. Further, findings indicated that preparedness was at moderate level, indicating gaps on ICT usage that required to be addressed. The study recommends that development of comprehensive and ongoing training programs to equip both the trainers and the trainees with the necessary skills and competencies to effectively utilize online platforms and digital resources in TVET institutions.