DESIGNING AN OPTIMIZED MODEL FOR ENHANCING SMART CLASSROOM UTILIZATION IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN GICUMBI DISTRICT, RWANDA
Abstract
The study investigated the key predictors of smart classroom utilization in public secondary schools in Gicumbi District, Rwanda, and developed an evidence-based optimized model to enhance digital learning. The study employed a quantitative correlational design with 175 senior three students selected through purposive sampling from schools with functional smart classrooms. Data were collected via questionnaires and analyzed using multiple regression and binary logistic regression. Findings revealed that interactivity and collaboration were significantly influenced by Technological Infrastructure, Pedagogical Readiness, and Institutional Support, whereas Critical Thinking and Active Engagement were primarily driven by Learning Environment and Learner Commitment. Peer Support and Instructional Proficiency had moderate contributions, and Pedagogical Readiness negatively affected Active Engagement. The results indicate that effective smart classroom utilization depends on a combination of technological, pedagogical, institutional, and learner-related factors. The study concludes that smart classroom utilization in Gicumbi District is driven by interconnected technological, pedagogical, institutional, and learner-related factors, with technological infrastructure, pedagogical readiness, and institutional support strongly influencing interactivity and collaboration, while learning environment and learner commitment mainly shape critical thinking and active engagement. Recommendations include prioritizing teacher professional development, improving technological infrastructure, fostering learner engagement, and establishing supportive institutional policies to maximize the benefits of smart classroom investments, ultimately enhancing digital learning outcomes in rural Rwandan secondary schools.
Keywords: Designing, optimized model, smart classroom utilization, public secondary schools, Gicumbi District, Rwanda
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