Home Economics Teachers’ Usage of Information and Communication Technologies in Hong Kong and in the Philippines and its Implications

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate what factors might be affecting the changing process to achieve at an optimum the 21st century teaching of Home Economics in the Philippines, with ICT as a contributing factor in the teaching and learning process. The integration of ICT is a major educational reform to achieving the goals of 21st century teaching and learning. It involves instructional transformation in the classroom; from a teacher-centered to a student-centered approach, and also incorporates shifts in the use of curriculum resources and personal beliefs. Educational change is a complex process and is affected by many factors. These factors include principals in schools, teachers, technical support, computer resources and professional development opportunities. Many barriers also exist which hinder the integration of ICT by the teachers. Methods used in the study were historical approach in which document investigation was undertaken to find and interpret relevant materials and data significant to the study. Findings showed, based on document investigations, that Hong Kong educational system is far ahead compared to the Philippines. The study found that the Philippines are inadequately prepared in ICT integration in teaching Home Economics which is germane in all facets.