Integration of Information and Communication Technologies in Teaching by Female Academic Teaching Staff in the Higher Education Sector in Mauritius

Abstract

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) is increasingly being used to support the process of academic teaching in the higher education sector. However, it is imperative to understand the causes for minimal utilisation of ICT tools by female academic teaching staff in their teaching process, resulting in gender inequity in technology. The research examined the correlation between ICT integration in the teaching process by female academic teaching staff in the higher education sector in Mauritius and the factors that could improve such integration in line.  Futures thinking methodology was used for this study to address policy, strategies and actions to support appropriate futures. It comprised an evaluation of the sources and causes of change to map a probable future and a preferable future. The future thinking methods included signalling, horizon scanning, future wheel analysis, alternate futures framework and determining scenarios.  As a result of the research, recommendations were made to assist policy makers and decision makers to develop evidence based policies to address gender inequity in the use of technology in higher education.