The Role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTS) In Promoting Stem Education in South Africa: Implication for Teacher Education and Development

Abstract

Despite the aspirations of the broad populace and the commitments of the leaders of the country, South Africa is struggling to overcome the effects of apartheid and colonialism. This paper explores the role of ICTs in promoting STEM education. This is a desktop review paper that discusses an overview of STEM education, the intersection of ICTs and STEM education, the transdisciplinary role of technology in STEM, the fundamental roles of ICTs in promoting STEM education in South Africa and the implication of ICT in STEM for teacher education and development. The paper concludes that the role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in South Africa is critical to offer transformative potential in enhancing STEM education by improving access, engagement, and instructional effectiveness, and their integration into teacher education and development. It must progressively address shortcomings in its education systems to realise an urgently improved economy and to overcome historical injustices.