ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ICT INTEGRATION IN ENHANCING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN AKSUM TOWN, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) integration in enhancing student engagement within secondary schools in Aksum Town, Tigray, Ethiopia. Focusing on four governmental institutions Mililk1rs Secondary School, Aksum Secondary school, Atse Kaleb Secondary school, and Aksum Allemunay Secondary school the research explores how ICT tools and practices influence students’ academic participation, motivation, and overall involvement in learning activities across grades 9 to 12. Employing a mixed methods research design, the study combines quantitative data collected through structured questionnaires distributed to students, teachers, and school administrators, with qualitative insights gathered from semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions involving education officers and members of the Parents’ Teachers Association (PTA). The sample includes: To ensure both breadth and depth of representation, the study employs stratified random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Data sources include school records (attendance, academic performance, disciplinary actions), and analysis is conducted using SPSS and Excel for statistical and visual interpretation. The findings are expected to reveal the extent to which ICT integration contributes to improved student engagement, identify key barriers and enablers of effective ICT use, and offer practical recommendations for enhancing digital learning environments in Ethiopian secondary schools. This research aims to inform educational stakeholders and policymakers on strategies for leveraging ICT to foster inclusive, interactive, and student centered learning.