Date of Award

12-2014

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

First Supervisor/Advisor

Dr. Nicholas Wachira

Second Supervisor/Advisor

Dr. Abdalla Mohamed

Department

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

Abstract

The rapid evolution of information and communication technology has influenced the way knowledge is produced and transmitted in educational institutions globally and particularly in Tanzania. Technology based networks (TBNs) are intentionally developed to enhance meaningful learning among learners. The Tanzania government’s remarkable efforts of equipping all 34 public teachers colleges with technological facilities in 2007 influenced the use of technology based networks (TBNs) in teaching and learning at teachers’ colleges. Of importance, leadership is a change agent to support TBNs to bring about intended learning outcomes. This study explored how leadership supports Technology-based Technology in teaching and learning in teachers colleges in Dodoma region, Tanzania. The study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches and employed multiple methods for data collection such as questionnaire, interview, observation and document analysis. Quantitative data was presented in tables and analysed quantitatively while qualitative data was transcribed, examined for common themes, grouped into subthemes and analysed according to the research questions of the study. The overall findings showed that despite that leadership team had limited understanding about Technology Based Networks (TBNs), it supports technology networks in forms of supplying basic computer software and hardware and technological knowledge to both tutors and student teachers. Findings also showed that fund raising and partnership improved competencies of staff and material resources for effective use of TBNs in teaching and learning. iv Therefore from the findings, it was recommended that the leadership should have broad understanding and ensure tutors are well equipped with pedagogical and technological competencies for TBNs to be effectively used in instructional process at teachers colleges. Moreover, collaborative efforts such as technological partnership with other institutions are very essential for college leadership to support and fully exploit the effective use of TBNs in improving quality education in this era of science and technology.

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