Abstract
In this age of information technology, the idea of using ICT as a teaching tool is very much at the forefront of all education discussions. Studies found that students are now more frequently engaged in the meaningful use of computers (Castro Sánchez and Alemán 2011) thus they have developed more knowledge and understanding in the use of technology in their areas of learning (Chai, Koh and Tsai 2010). It is therefore crucial for teachers to change their ways of teaching from a more traditional pedagogy to integrating ICT into their teaching method so they will be able to cater for learning needs of the 21st century learners. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine perceptions of pre service teachers concerning the use of ICT as a pedagogical tool in the teaching and learning process. Further to explore this cohorts’ views on adequacy of computer courses offered at university in preparing them for the teaching profession. This qualitative study utilized an open ended questionnaire with 40 Pre service teachers (24 Secondary and 16 Primary) who were in their 3rd year in their study within the training institution. Findings indicated that computer courses offered for pre service teachers were sufficient only to fulfill students’ academic requirements and lesson preparation during teaching practice. Findings also indicated that while ICT has great pedagogical value, it is perceived as a teaching resource/tool in the hand of the teacher which reinforces the notion of teacher centered (teacher imparts knowledge and learners receive) as opposed to learned centered approach where learners themselves use ICT to construct their own learning. The study although undertaken in Samoa has greater relevance to other contexts in the area of ICT and education.
Keywords: Teacher Education, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Integration, Pedagogy
