Practices of ICTs in Mathematics classroom: opportunities and challenges

Abstract

My research was entitled "Practices of ICTs in mathematics classroom: Opportunities and Challenges." My research objectives were to explore the practices, opportunities, challenges, and way forward of ICT integration in mathematics classrooms. My research was qualitative with an ethnographic approach. Three schools having facilities of ICTs were my research site. My research samples were six mathematics teachers, six students, two head teachers, and two ICT experts whereas sampling was purposive. My data collection methods were in-depth interviews, participant observation, and focus group discussions. Teachers and students are practicing ICTs by engaging, demonstrating, gaming, and using applications. Motivation to learn, availability of learning materials, student and teachers interaction, opportunities for self-learning, and the chance of teaching- learning and earning are the opportunities whereas insufficient infrastructures, lack of internet network, lack of willingness of admin, teachers insufficient knowledge, lack of teacher‟s training, lack of time, insufficient budget, lack of skillful manpower, digital divide, misuse of technologies, and high cost of ICTs' tools are challenges of ICT integration in the mathematics classroom. Developing ICT-friendly infrastructures, conducting effective teacher training, developing well-acceptable applications, redesigning the syllabus, minimizing the cost of ICT tools, and recruiting skillful manpower are the coping strategies for these challenges. Teachers and students are practicing ICTs in mathematics classrooms by their choice but facing a lot of problems. To solve these problems this research would be the guideline for policymakers, curriculum designers, schools, teachers, and students to develop ICT-friendly plans, curricula, infrastructure, environment, and learning way.