Assessing the Utilisation of ICT-Based Educational Tools in the Post-COVID-19 Landscape: A Case Study of a South African University

The COVID-19 epidemic has accelerated the rapid integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in higher education. This study investigates how ICT-based teaching resources are utilised in a post-COVID-19 South African university located in a rural area. The study adopted a quantitative approach to assess the utilisation of ICT-based educational tools post-COVID-19 era. A questionnaire was distributed and 60 respondents participated in the study. To analyse the technology aspect of the study, we applied the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) perspective. The study focused on those students who were exposed to ICT due to COVID-19. The data were analysed using SPSS 26 and the results were presented in the form of charts and graphs. The results showed a slight improvement in ICT utilisation in learning within the higher education environment. Also, there was an improvement in the infrastructure that supported students in their learning. The results highlight the need for focused interventions to improve ICT integration and address digital inequities in a way that guarantees fair educational opportunities in the dynamic field of higher education. There is moderate familiarity with ICT learning tools among rural university students and a willingness to continuously use them in their learning. The study adds a voice to the growing body of literature on post-pandemic educational environments by providing useful advice for academic institutions looking to maximise the use of ICT resources.