An Investigation of Factors Affecting the Integration of Technology in the Teaching of Commercial Subjects: A Case Study of Three Selected Rural Secondary Schools in Sinazongwe District of Zambia

The integration of technology in education has become an essential component of effective teaching and learning in the 21st century. In the teaching of commercial subjects, technology enhances learners' understanding, promotes interactive learning, and equips students with relevant digital skills for the modern business environment. However, the successful integration of technology in rural schools remains a challenge. This study investigated the factors hindering the integration of technology in the teaching of commercial subjects in three selected rural secondary schools in Sinazongwe District.
The objectives of the study were to identify the barriers affecting technology integration, examine the availability and accessibility of technological resources, assess teachers' technological competencies, and explore possible strategies for improving technology use in the teaching of commercial subjects. The study employed a descriptive case study design using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were collected from commercial subject teachers, school administrators, and learners through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis for qualitative data and descriptive statistics for quantitative data.
The findings revealed that technology integration was hindered by several factors, including inadequate technological infrastructure, limited access to computers and internet connectivity, insufficient teacher training in information and communication technology (ICT), unreliable electricity supply, and inadequate funding for educational technology. The study further established that these challenges negatively affected the quality of teaching and learning of commercial subjects in the selected schools.
The study concluded that despite the recognized benefits of educational technology, significant barriers continue to limit its effective integration in rural secondary schools. It recommends increased investment in ICT infrastructure, provision of adequate technological resources, continuous professional development for teachers, and strengthened government and stakeholder support to enhance technology integration in commercial subject instruction.
Keywords: Technology Integration, Commercial Subjects, ICT in Education, Rural Secondary Schools, Teaching and Learning.

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