Success factors for ICT implementation in Saudi secondary schools: From the perspective of ICT directors, head teachers, teachers and students.

The role of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) in education is undisputed globally. Therefore, many developed and developing countries have invested heavily in the ICT sector in education. Saudi Arabia is one of these countries. However, although it has invested massively in the ICT sector in education, the progression has often been disappointing - resulting in a number of serious questions being raised for decision-makers and educators alike. One of the most important of these questions is 'what factors affect the successful implementation of ICT in schools'. Hence, the importance of this paper is to find an answer to this question and related questions from the participants' perspective. Consequently, the study is primarily concerned with qualitative data, collected in semi-structured interviews with two ICT directors, four headmasters, four teachers and four students, in Saudi secondary schools. Generally, the results showed that ICT was perceived as an important tool in improving performance, collaboration, learning experience and learning outcomes. However, some challenges that affect the application of ICT in Saudi schools are, for example, the lack of space, resources, maintenance, a lack of ICT skills among school along with a lack in ICT training and a lack of clear ICT policies. However, the overcoming of these obstacles could turn these barriers into positive factors to aid in the success of ICT implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]