Success factors and challenges of an information communication technology network in rural schools

Abstract

In April 2008, an interactive information communication technology (ICT) network was established in Mpumalanga, South Africa. The network involved the implementation of SMART board interactive whiteboards (IWBs) and collaboration between a leading school and several disadvantaged schools. The main purpose of the Mpumalanga IWB project was to reach out to rural schools in the area in order to improve the teaching of Science and Mathematics for Grade 12 learners. The purpose of the research was also to determine the success factors contributing to the survival of the project as well as the challenges that the interviewees had to face. The project has been extremely successful in bridging the urban-rural divide and is a model for other schools to emulate.