Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Skills for Bachelor of Education Degree Students at the University of Zimbabwe: Implications for University Policy on a Computer Course for Undergraduate Student Teachers

Abstract

The development of appropriate computer literacy skills within all school teachers for non-computing subjects has recently become a strong international challenge. This is in view of the increasing use of computers in enhancing learning in all educational institutions, including colleges and universities. Employing a survey methodology, this study sought to provide answers to questions that included: what computer skills do undergraduate student teachers bring with them to the University of Zimbabwe; v*hat computer equipment was available at the teachers ’ schools and homes; and what factors influenced the teachers ’ computer skills development? The findings indicated that the students teachers were generally from rural areas and had no, or very little, experience with computers, with most of them using a computer for the first time. The study recommends strengthening the course through strategies such as increasing the computer equipment available for trainning and offering a separate certificate for the course as an incentive.