Teachers’ Perceptions of Technology Integration in English Classrooms in Azad Kashmir: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

This study aims to investigate English teachers’ attitudes and perceptions about integration of technology in English classrooms of district Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (henceforth AJK). It also highlights the factors that obstruct the integration of technology in English classrooms in AJK. The sample for current study consisted of 30 English language teachers that were selected through purposive convenient sampling technique from six secondary schools of district Muzaffarabad. The data was collected under two stages, starting with quantitative data collection with the help of questionnaires, followed by qualitative data collection through interviews. The collected data has been analyzed statistically through percentages. It has been found that English teachers in AJK are well cognizant about the importance of integration of technology. Also, they showed an optimistic response towards integration of technology, but they have failed to integrate technology in their classrooms due to some obstructing factors and challenges. The study identified that lack of information about how to use technological equipment and programs, lack of budget, unavailability of technology, Lack of training courses and lack of appropriate resources are the challenges that discourage the English teachers from integrating technology into their English classes. It was also found that the school views about technology do not affect the use of technology in English classrooms. The finding of this study may assist the policy makers to understand the factors that hinder the integration of technology in English classes in AJK. Finally, this study gives some recommendations such as providing enough funds for technological instruments and training courses for teachers that are needed to ensure technology integration in English classes.

            Keywords: perceptions, challenges, integration, technology, english classroom