An Inquiry into the Challenges Experienced by Information Communication Technology (ICT) Students at a Higher Education Institution (HEI) in Jamaica

Authors

  • Ifeoluwa Igwebuike Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Shaquille Sproul Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Rufa’EL Buckeridge Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Tamiesha Archat Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Nikita Edwards Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Samara Wedderburn Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Paul Andrew Bourne, PhD, DrPH., Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Zandy U. Elliott, PhD, DHSc. University of Technology, Jamaica (UTECH), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Vivienne L. Quarrie, PhD Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Mandeville, Manchester, Jamaica, WI.
  • Feliciano Thorpe, MSc Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.
  • Ikhalfani Solan, PhD South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, South Carolina, United States.
  • Moya-Gaye Hamilton MSc Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI), Kingston, Jamaica, WI.

Abstract

Introduction: Despite the pivotal role that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays in driving economic development, students pursuing ICT education in Jamaica face numerous barriers that hinder their academic success and professional readiness.

Objectives: This study seeks to comprehensively explore the challenges experienced by ICT students in a Jamaican Higher Education Institution (HEI). The primary goals are to identify critical barriers affecting students' academic performance, assess the adequacy of existing support systems, and evaluate the alignment between educational curricula and industry needs. Furthermore, the study aims to provide actionable recommendations for stakeholders to enhance ICT education and foster greater career readiness among students.

Methods and Materials: A quantitative cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted to comprehensively understand the challenges experienced by ICT students at a Jamaican HEI. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire using a purposive sample of 44 ICT students across different academic levels and programmes within the HEI. The survey captured data on access to technological resources, financial constraints, career aspirations, and perceptions of institutional support.

Findings: Over 70% of students reported needing more access to essential technological resources, including laptops, specialised software, and reliable internet connections. Students frequently cited a need for practical exposure to real-world ICT applications, indicating that the curriculum needs to prepare them for the dynamic demands of the ICT sector.

Conclusion: This research highlights the urgent need for systemic interventions to address the challenges ICT students face in Jamaica. Addressing these issues requires strategic investments in ICT infrastructure, including modern hardware, software, and reliable internet connectivity, along with a curriculum aligned to industry demands and enhanced with practical learning opportunities.

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Published

2024-08-21

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 2 (2024): Global Journal of Emerging Trend in Education and Social Science (ISSN: 2582-1377)

Section

Articles