Using computers in the teaching and learning of mathematics in senior secondary schools around Mafikeng area project office

Abstract

The research study sought to investigate the following research hypotheses; computer is an effective tool in the teaching - learning of Mathematics teachers and learners are facing challenges or have barriers that hinder them from using computers in their lesson presentations; teachers and learners are computer illiterate and administrators at schools around Mafikeng are using computers. The population for this research study was drawn from Senior Secondary Schools in the Mafikeng Area Project Office. A sample of 20 schools was used whereby 300 learners were randomly selected and 40 Mathematics teachers were purposely selected. Two questionnaires were used, one for teachers and one for learners for the purpose of data collection. Quantitative approach was used to analyse the research data. The main findings were that: Most teachers and learners are computer illiterate; few teachers make their own arrangements to attend private institutions and pay their fees to be trained to use the computer. Some private sectors in North West Province donated computers to most schools but training was not given to any teacher. There is a dire need a.n..d interest in teachers and learners to use computer since teachers noted that it reduces workload and paper work. It is recommended that: The Department of Education provide training of teachers for using computers in teaching Mathematics, distribute finances evenly that can allow schools to build computer laboratories in schools and those schools with computers should consider standardising their computer software.