Evaluation of the Integration of Information and Communication Technology English Language in Distance Learning Programmes

Abstract

This research aims to evaluate the integrative of I.C.T in English language distance learning programs. The objectives of this study is to investigate to what extent I.C.T's are used in distance education center at Sudan University of Science and Technology, English Department, and to explore the benefits of using I.C.T to what extent do instructors, educational leaders, and policy makers integrate I.C.T in the curriculum to find out the problems encountered by learners of English language, distance learning, regarding I.C.T skills, and infrastructure to find out if distance education center provides I.C.T training courses for these who are in need, whether learners or teachers. The researcher uses the descriptive method, the case study is Distance Education Center, Sudan University of Science and Technology. The tool of the research is questionnaire for the learners. The population of the study is students of Sudan University of Science and Technology, Distance Education Center, specialized in English language, Faculty of Education. The Sample of the study consists of (100) respondents from Fourth year in Sudan University of Science and Technology, Distance Education, Faculty of Education, English language Department. The results of the questionnaire are as follow: I.C.T is an essential means of education and a key component in distance education. Text books which are the only sources of information for learners, given by the distance center, is very limited and traditional, and not updating with modern technology. It needs further development and changes in order to fulfill the needs of learners and the renew and facilitate its I.C.T infrastructure, which plays a great role in the process of distance learning. Lack of coordination and communication between the students and university super visors, which raise the level of awareness of how means of communication are crucial between learners and their instructors. However, because of this conventional system, learners have to attend personally to university and this leads to economic problems. According to the researcher recommends the following: Activating means of communication in Distance education center, for instance radio, television, computer and the need to use the internet services, which should be free and available for learners. I.C.T training courses for both instructors and learners. Activating the role of the academic supervisor. Promote awareness of the importance of the usage of I.C.T in distance education.