BUILDING STRENGTHS IN INFORMATION COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN KENYAN UNIVERSITIES: WAY FORWARD FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

Abstract

Information and Communication Technology is increasingly becoming crucial part of the education system in Kenya and globally. ICT has changed the functioning of the educational system. This paper considers the rapid spread of ICT applications; which has brought technological, social and economic transformations. These changes have caused higher educational institutions, administrators, lecturers to rethink their roles, lecturing and vision for future. The sustainability of a nation in the era of knowledge economy depends on the effective educational system. The proper integration of ICT with teaching/learning increases educational productivity. ICT provides various opportunities to higher educational learners and make lecturers aware of their new roles and responsibilities. ICT has enabled us to monitor and evaluate what is learned, how it is learned, when and where learning takes place. It is enabling the educational management system to dis-charge functions like, administration of examinations, coordination, and alumni network. ICT provides nontraditional students with internet based education anytime and anywhere, these internet technologies enable innovative ways of lecturing. The innovative practices demonstrate approaches, challenging issues, and success factors in integrating ICT into education.