An Assessment of the ICT Readiness of Bulacnin National High School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The K to 12 Curriculum adopted in the Philippine Educational System dictates the formation of 21st-century skills among the so-called millennial learners. In particular, this includes learning and innovation skills, information, media and technology skills, communication skills, and life and career skills. These are intertwining skills that can be learned best in a student-centered classroom where ICT or information and communication technology integration is nurtured. At the same time, it is undeniable that our 21st-century learners demand a learning environment that can sustain their virtual calling for a more fast-paced, high-tech and intuitive learning experience. This study was undertaken to closely examine the readiness of Bulacnin National High School for a full ICT implementation in all of its classrooms.

METHODS

The study is a quantitative one. It made use of a survey questionnaire crafted by the researcher to gather pertinent data and information. Specifically, the research tool will assess the school's readiness in terms of 1) facilities and equipment; 2) internet connectivity, 3) budget allocation, 4) development plan, and 5) teachers' skills. All teachers and ICT personnel of Bulacnin NHS were considered the respondents of the study. In addition, the ICT profile of the school was also assessed by examining the available facilities, equipment, and tools related to ICT. Data gathered from the research tool were then subjected to simple statistical treatment like Mean and T-Test.

RESULTS

Based on the analysis of the school's ICT profile and the survey results, it was revealed that the school is ready for ICT implementation in terms of facilities and equipment, its development plan, its teachers' skills and their willingness to integrate ICT. When it comes to internet connectivity, results concluded that the school's readiness is still undecided. Furthermore, in budget allocation, the school's readiness is also undecided. In summary, all respondents agree that Bulacnin National High School is ready to integrate ICT in their classrooms.

DISCUSSIONS

In the final analysis, the investigation revealed that Bulacnin National High School is ready to integrate ICT in its classroom. However, there is still a need to improve its budget allocation for purchasing equipment and in maintaining these equipment and facilities. There is also a need to institute a clear and realistic development plan for a full ICT integration.