Impact of ICT in Classroom Teaching and Learning in Higher Education: A Study of Hilly Campus (Terhathum Multiple Campus and Pantcher M. Campus)

Abstract

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been an integral part of modern higher education, bringing about changes to the traditional methods of teaching and learning to become more interactive and learner-centered. The main objective of this study was to conduct a study on the impact of ICT in classroom teaching and learning in higher education. The study particularly focused on identifying the ICT tools used in learning, measuring the effect of ICT in classroom participation and learning motivation and analyzing the challenges faced in ICT usage. The study followed the positivist research paradigm and utilized descriptive and analytical research approach. Data were gathered from 100 students of Terhathum Multiple Campus and Panchthar Multiple Campus through a structured questionnaire. The respondents were selected using simple random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean analysis, and regression analysis. The findings revealed that mobile phones (96%) and internet services (86%) were the most commonly used ICT tools. ICT positively influenced learning motivation, classroom participation, communication, research skills, and academic achievement. Regression analysis showed a strong positive relationship between ICT use and teaching-learning effectiveness (R = 0.84, R² = 0.71, β = 0.72, p < 0.05). However, weak internet connectivity, inadequate ICT infrastructure, limited equipment, and insufficient technical skills were identified as major challenges. The findings suggest that for ICT to be effective in study area, priority should be given to teacher encouragement and online learning integration rather than hardware alone.