The Use of Electronic Technology by Facilitators at the Institute of Adult Education (IAE), Tanzania

Abstract

This study aimed at examining use of electronic technology by facilitators at Tanzania’s Institute of Adult Education (IAE). The study
used descriptive research strategy, which employed both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. A sample of 30 facilitators drawn from a population of 61 facilitators of the IAE Headquarters were consulted aiming at examining their use of electronic technology in terms of application(s) in use, existing competencies, experienced challenges and offered in-house training(s). Questionnaires were administered to some respondents. Findings showed that use of electronic technology by
IAE facilitators has now improved enormously compared to the situation in 2000s. Facilitators are ordinary users of computer applications like Microsoft Office Word processing and electronic mail (e-mail) but they are advanced users of WhatsApp and Facebook social media applications. Also facilitators use electronic technology via their personal computers and Internet at their own costs because the office has limited computers and Internet service. It is concluded that having all facilitators using computers and other electronic technology facilities regardless of the existing challenges is a remarkable step towards professional development. Study recommendations, among others include making use of the existing social media platform of facilitators, establishing an electronic platform (e-platform) for facilitators, training of facilitators and enhancing one-to-one (1:1) computer ratio among facilitators with reliable Internet service provision at IAE.