Influence of technology on teaching and learning in vocational education and training in relation to the world of work: A Case of Weaving as a Skill at Selected Formal Training Institutions and Work places in Uganda.

Abstract

This study investigated whether the technology in terms of tools and equipment used in the teaching and learning of a weaving skill in selected training institutions has a bearing to the world of work in Uganda. More of a qualitative than a quantitative approach was employed, following a descriptive design on a sample size of 49 respondents who were selected purposively from a population of students, graduates and lecturers of weaving of the two formal training institutions; Kyambogo and Makerere Universities. The study was guided by three objectives. Findings revealed that manual weaving technology employed for small scale production was used in the process of teaching and learning a weaving skill in training institutions in Uganda. Electricity run equipment used for mass production weaving in the world of work was not available in training institutions. I concluded that learners were equipped with skills to only operate manual weaving technology for small scale production and not with skills to manipulate electricity run equipment for industrial mass production in the world of work. I recommended that training institutions should continuously upgrade and maintain in good working conditions the technology they use in the teaching and learning of a weaving skill, to match that used in the world of work, so as to enhance equipping learners with appropriate skills required in the world of work.