Abstract:

ICT4D (Information and Communications Technologies for Development) is an initiative to bridge the digital divide between the "have" and "have not". It includes, amongst others, radio, television, cellular phones, computer and network hardware and software. Because of this, the dissemination of information through use of mobile technology and their applications is more and more frequent at universities and all higher educational institutions. This study examined the use of, and perceptions on WhatsApp messaging application by pre-service teachers at a University of Technology in South Africa. Forty-three (43) randomly selected first year students were selected for this study. A Web based questionnaire (through Blackboard) was used to evaluate pre-service teachers’ perceptions in the use of WhatsApp in addressing teaching and learning challenges Descriptive statistics were used to present the results. Findings suggest that access to learning resources anywhere, anytime, and in various formats has the potential to enhance deep student learning capabilities and to allow students to construct their own knowledge. A positive WhatsApp usage may minimise challenges that are faced by pre-service teachers and also lead to improved teaching and learning.

Keywords:

technological inclusion, technological support.