TRANSFORMATIVE INFLUENCE OF MODERN COMMUNICATION TOOLS AND SOFTWARES ON PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION IN RWANDAA CASE OF ONE LAPTOP PER CHILD (OLPC) PROJECT, KICUKIRO DISTRICT
Authors: Mbarushimana Ildephonse; Irechukwu Nkechi Eugenia
Year: 2024

Background:This research project on examining the transformative influence of modern communication tools and software on project implementation in Rwanda, with a case study of One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) project, Kicukiro district is structured around three specific objectives: To assess the influence of Communication Infrastructure on implementation of the One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) project in Rwanda,To examine the effect of Software Integration on implementation of the One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) project in Rwanda,To find out the impact of Training Programs on implementation of the One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) project in Rwanda. Three theories were looked at and their relevance to the topic under investigation and these theories are Innovation Diffusion Theory, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)andSocial Construction of Technology (SCOT). Methods and Materials: To achieve the mentioned objectives, a descriptive and correlation research design was adopted. Data was collected through a combination of both quantitative and qualitative methods, utilizing interview guides and questionnaires. A sample size of 86 individuals was selected from the pool of target population which consist of 110individuals, following Taro Yamanes formula for sample size determination. The researcher ensures that the studys sample is not only comprehensive but also strategically selected using purposive sampling technique. Results: The collected data wasrevealed crucial insights. Regarding communication infrastructure, availability and accessibility of reliable broadband (mean=3.97, SD=0.97), speed and reliability of network infrastructure (mean=4.47, SD=0.76), scalability (mean=4.52, SD=0.73), adequate network coverage (mean=4.49, SD=0.75), and robustness (mean=3.77, SD=1.05) were key factors. For software, compatibility with OLPC devices (mean=3.37, SD=1.06), user-friendly interfaces (mean=3.95, SD=1.11), regular updates (mean=3.65, SD=0.98), adaptability to diverse learning environments (mean=3.74, SD=0.91), and security features (mean=4.37, SD=0.76) were critical. In training programs, the relevance of the curriculum (mean=4.09, SD=0.80), trainers expertise (mean=4.28, SD=0.78), practical sessions (mean=4.45, SD=0.75), continuous assessment (mean=4.39, SD=0.77), and availability of resources (mean=4.31, SD=0.76) were emphasized. The correlation analysis indicated a strong positive correlation between modern communication tools transformative influence and OLPC project implementation (r = 0.794, p < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that software integration (B = 0.709, p = 0.000) and training programs (B = 0.499, p = 0.000) significantly influenced project implementation, emphasizing their importance for successful outcomes. Conclusion: The research concludes by emphasizing on that the availability of reliable broadband, network speed, scalability, and coverage are crucial. Software must be compatible, user-friendly, updated, adaptable, and secure. Training programs should be relevant, led by expert trainers, hands-on, and supported by resources. Recommendations were made basing on the findings including developing reliable broadband infrastructure, ensuring software compatibility and security, aligning curriculum with project goals, and enhancing trainer expertise and training programs.And finally, suggestions for further study were made and these included to Explore specific interventions for infrastructure improvement, develop guidelines for software developers, study innovative training approaches, assess feedback mechanisms, and examine public-private partnerships role in enhancing access to communication tools.This study on the OLPC Project in Rwanda highlights the transformative impact of modern communication tools, offering insights for project management and educational initiatives. It provides evidence-based recommendations for policymakers to align with Rwandas progress vision, contributing significantly to academic discussions on technologys role in project implementation.