Ecuadorian high school teachers’ perceptions on ICT use in their EFL classes.

Abstract

This study was conducted to analyze Ecuadorian high school teachers’ perceptions about ICT usage in their EFL classes. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were applied to gather information. Therefore, an 18-statement questionnaire on the characteristics of English teachers considered by them as barriers to use ICT in their classes, and another 17-statement questionnaire about the characteristic factor that mainly influences the use of ICT in their classes were applied. The sample of 20 teachers was determined at random, and consisted of 10 teachers from privateand 10 from public institutions in Azogues and Cañar cities. Besides, 6 from the 20 teachers were chosen at random to be interviewed. As a conclusion this research determined that the majority of teachers are aware of the importance of ICT usage in education. Regarding the teachers’ gender, it was established that female EFL teachers are more cautious in their opinions on ICT usage than male ones; however, it was also clear that both groups want to learn more about technology. Key words: teachers' perceptions, ICT use, barriers, teachers’ characteristics, teachers' gender, Ecuadorian high schools.