Positive Attitudes, Constrained Practice: School-Level Support and Chemistry Teachers’ ICT Integration in Mkuranga District, Tanzania

Abstract

Digital education reforms in Tanzania are expanding, yet secondary schools face gaps in infrastructure, training, connectivity, and technical support. This study examined whether school-level support and infrastructure shaped chemistry teachers’ attitudes toward information and communication technology (ICT) integration in Mkuranga District. The objective was to determine how training and infrastructure influenced those attitudes. A mixed-method case-study design was used. The study involved 56 participants: 46 chemistry teachers and 10 heads of schools; 10 teachers and all heads joined interviews, and 10 lessons were observed. Structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and a non-participant observation checklist generated data. Following permission and consent, questionnaires were administered, 30–45-minute interviews were audio-recorded, and observations were documented. Frequencies, percentages, and simple linear regression at α = .05 analysed quantitative data; thematic analysis and triangulation integrated qualitative and observational evidence. Literature-based item development, expert review, pilot testing, construct alignment, and triangulation supported validity. Test–retest reliability of at least .80 and Cronbach’s alpha of at least .70 were prespecified, although realised coefficients were not reported. Participation was voluntary, confidential, anonymous, and withdrawable. Reliable electricity (80.1%) and supportive leadership (76.2%) coexisted with inadequate resources (85.0%), limited regular training (35.7%), inadequate infrastructure (35.7%), and weak technical support (38.1%). Support did not significantly predict attitudes, R² = .009, F(1, 41) = 0.362, p = .551. Teachers valued ICT but could not enact that commitment. The study concludes that attitude is not the principal bottleneck. It recommends targeted chemistry-focused professional development, equitable equipment and connectivity, and funded technical maintenance.