Students' Attitude towards General Information and Communication Technology (Study Based on the Tamil Medium Advanced Level Students of Beruwala Zone)

Abstract

In the 21st century, as Information and Communication Technology stands as a fundamental pillar of education, employment, and social progress, the attitude of Advanced Level students toward the General Information Technology (GIT) subject directly determines their academic performance and future career opportunities. This study was conducted based on descriptive survey and mixed-method research approaches. From a population of 202 Grade 12 students studying in four Tamil-medium schools (Type 1AB and 1C) in the Beruwala Zone, 112 students were selected as a sample based on the Morgan Table. For data collection, questionnaires were used for students and teachers, while interviews were conducted with parents. The collected quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS and Excel software, and qualitative data were analyzed through thematic analysis. The attitudes of students toward the GIT subject are significantly influenced by student-related factors such as personal interest, technical skills, learning motivation, and the progress and barriers to learning GIT ; school-related factors such as teaching methods, resources, teacher support, technology usage, and the lack of technical training and guidance for teachers; and parent-related factors including parental encouragement, technological facilities at home, gender discrimination, and GIT usage. Furthermore, it is confirmed that fluctuations in past GIT examination results, external circumstances, and educational system challenges have also impacted students' attitudes. The study emphasizes the necessity of teaching strategies, educational resource development, and parental awareness to improve students' positive attitudes toward the GIT subject. This research is expected to serve as a foundation for educational planning, policy formulation, and future studies, while providing a useful contribution to the development of GIT skills among Advanced Level students and the country's human resource development. This study recommends that various measures be taken at different levels to address these issues