ICT Proficiency For Efficient Conduct of Digital Classroom Teaching
ICT Proficiency For Efficient Conduct of Digital Classroom Teaching
CLASSROOM TEACHING
Volume: 23
Issue 9
Pages: 1104-1115
Document ID: 2024PEMJ2217
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.13334740
Manuscript Accepted: 07-18-2024
Psych Educ, 2024, 23(9): 1104-1115, Document ID:2024PEMJ2217, doi:10.5281/zenodo.13334740, ISSN 2822-4353
Research Article
Introduction
The integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in education involves utilizing technology-based teaching and
learning processes that incorporate various learning technologies in schools (Wang, 2008). The increasing momentum of ICT
integration in educational literature underscores its significance in modern education (Lawrence, 2018). ICT's growth has opened vast
opportunities for enhancing education by enabling teaching and learning to occur anytime and anywhere (Lawrence, 2020). This
flexibility is crucial for improving the quality of classroom interactions and facilitating personalized learning experiences that cater to
individual needs (Lawrence & Tar, 2018).
Technology plays a vital role in education. With rapid advancements in technology, the demand for human resources skilled in ICT is
increasing (Parojenog, 2023). Educators can leverage digital tools such as computers, tablets, educational software, and internet
resources to support instruction, promote collaboration, and personalize student learning experiences by incorporating ICT into the
teaching-learning process. This integration also enables innovative teaching methods like blended learning and flipped classrooms,
combining traditional instruction with online resources and interactive activities. Additionally, ICT integration aligns with the broader
goal of developing digital literacy and 21st-century skills among students, preparing them to thrive in a technology-driven society.
Educators increasingly recognize the significant role of ICT in education at all levels. Teacher education institutions and programs are
expected to model new pedagogies and learning tools while developing strategies to enhance the teaching-learning process (UNESCO,
2002). Providing pre-service teachers with opportunities to experiment with ICT before classroom implementation is essential (Albirini,
2006). The advent of web-based interactive technologies has expanded the possibilities for teachers and students to utilize technology
in education.
As teachers become more proficient with ICT integration and researchers incorporate teachers' pedagogical considerations into ICT
integration proficiency (Koehler et al., 2007; Angeli & Valanides, 2009), greater differentiation in planning, teaching, and evaluation
may be achieved. Educational technology policymakers emphasize professional development as key to effectively helping teachers
integrate ICT into their lessons (Culp et al., 2005). Teachers' willingness to improve their teaching with technology is evident when
they practice ICT skills, participate in conferences, read journals about ICT integration methods, or take online courses for professional
development.
Interactive learning, facilitated by ICT, is effective because it engages students with the lecture, transforming them from passive
listeners to active participants (Biggs, 2003). Evidence suggests that students understand and retain teaching material better and enjoy
learning more when actively engaged (Murray & Brightman, 1996). This engagement can improve retention and success rates of
educational programs. Interactive teaching encourages students to interact more with teachers and peers, enhancing their learning
Methodology
Research Design
The researcher used a descriptive survey method to evaluate ICT proficiency in teaching and learning. A structured questionnaire was
developed to assess educators' familiarity with digital tools, frequency of technology use, and perceptions of ICT's impact on student
outcomes. The sample included teachers from diverse educational settings to ensure a comprehensive view of ICT proficiency. Data
collection involved inviting teachers via email, school announcements, and professional networks, with confidentiality and anonymity
assured to encourage participation. The questionnaire covered basic technological skills, advanced competencies, attitudes toward
technology, self-efficacy, and perceived barriers to ICT integration. Statistical software was used to analyze the data, providing an
overview of ICT proficiency among teachers.
Participants
The study involved 23 Kindergarten teachers from various elementary schools across Sierra Bullones District, Bohol. These educators
are crucial in shaping early educational experiences for young learners. Table 1 details the distribution of respondents from each school
within the district, ensuring comprehensive representation.
The schools included in the study are Abachanan Elementary School (ES), Anibongan Elementary School (ES), Bugsoc Elementary
School (ES) with two respondents, Cahayag Elementary School (ES), Canlangit Elementary School (ES), Cantaub Elementary School
(ES), Concepcion Elementary School (ES), Danicop Elementary School (ES), Dusita Elementary School (ES), La Union Elementary
School (ES), Magsaysay Elementary School (ES), Matin-ao Elementary School (ES), Nan-od Elementary School (ES), Salvador
Elementary School (ES), San Agustin Elementary School (ES), San Isidro Elementary School (ES), San Jose Elementary School (ES),
San Juan Elementary School (ES), Sierra Bullones Central Elementary School (SBCES) with two respondents, and Villa Garcia
Elementary School (ES).
This diverse representation ensures that insights into ICT proficiency are gathered from various educational contexts within the Sierra
Bullones District. By analyzing ICT integration across different schools, the study aims to identify disparities and commonalities,
providing a nuanced understanding that can inform effective strategies for enhancing ICT proficiency in kindergarten education.
Table 1. Distribution of the Respondents
Respondents Number of Respondents Percentage
Abachanan ES 1 4.34%
Anibongan ES 1 4.34%
Bugsoc ES 2 8.69%
Cahayag ES 1 4.34%
Canlangit ES 1 4.34%
Cantaub ES 1 4.34%
Concepcion ES 1 4.34%
Danicop ES 1 4.34%
Dusita ES 1 4.34%
La Union ES 1 4.34%
Magsaysay ES 1 4.34%
Matin-ao ES 1 4.34%
Nan-od ES 1 4.34%
Salvador ES 1 4.34%
San Agustin ES 1 4.34%
San Isidro ES 1 4.34%
San Jose ES 1 4.34%
San Juan ES 1 4.34%
SBCES 2 8.69%
Villa Garcia ES 1 4.34%
Total 23 100%
Instruments
Central to this study is a survey questionnaire designed for kindergarten teachers in the Sierra Bullones District. This instrument, based
on a validated framework, explores teachers' ICT proficiency, usage, challenges, and perceptions. It aims to uncover insights into ICT
integration, identify barriers, and establish correlations between ICT proficiency and teaching practices. Administered district-wide,
the questionnaire ensures a diverse sample, facilitating rigorous statistical analysis to inform actionable recommendations for enhancing
ICT in early childhood education.
Procedure
The research process began with securing formal approval through a transmittal letter addressed to the School Division Superintendent
of Bohol Division. This letter outlined the study's objectives and sought permission to conduct research within educational precincts,
ensuring cooperation and access to resources.
Once approval was obtained, the researcher engaged kindergarten teachers, providing clear instructions and explaining the study's
significance. Questionnaires were distributed over two days, allowing time for thorough completion. Completed questionnaires were
collected systematically to ensure data integrity.
Following data collection, responses were meticulously summarized and organized for detailed analysis. Statistical tools were
employed to identify patterns and relationships, yielding insights into ICT integration among kindergarten teachers in the Sierra
Bullones District. This rigorous approach ensured reliability and informed future educational strategies.
Data Analysis
In the analysis and interpretation of data, the following statistical treatments were used:
Frequency. The qualitative data, including responses from the survey questionnaire, were analyzed using descriptive statistical
treatment. The findings were presented with percentage, average & rank order. For statistical purposes, the responses on the level of
proficiency of the respondents in ICT were categorized as Very High, High, Low, and Very Low with weight equivalents of 4, 3, 2,
and 1 respectively.
Weighted Mean. This technique is used to measure the central tendency where some values are given importance over others. This is
used to gauge the average value of responses to items in the questionnaire (Ferguson, 1992: 482)
Pearson Product Moment Coefficient of Correlation. To determine the significant degree of correlation between the teachers’ ICT
proficiency and its level of impact on pedagogy and student learning the data were subjected to Pearson Product Moment Coefficient
of Correlation using the formula (Angeles, 2005:269). The obtained Pearson Product Moment Coefficient of Correlation ratio was
checked against the Table of Significant values at 0.05 level of significance.
Ethical Considerations
This study adhered to ethical standards by obtaining informed consent from all participants, ensuring confidentiality, and maintaining
voluntary participation without coercion. No harm happened to participants, and the study received ethics committee approval. The
researcher declared no conflicts of interest and reported findings transparently and honestly. Cultural sensitivity was respected
throughout the research process.
Results and Discussion
This section presents, analyzes, and interprets the collected data systematically to verify and substantiate the research questions. The
presentation covers various aspects, including the profile of the respondents in terms of age, gender, number of years of teaching,
highest educational attainment, and relevant trainings attended. Additionally, the study examined the problems faced by kindergarten
teachers in integrating ICT into their teaching practices. The relationship between teachers' ICT proficiency and its impact on pedagogy
and student learning was also investigated.
To analyze the data, descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Descriptive statistics provided an overview of the respondents'
profiles and performance in the identified competencies. Inferential statistics were employed to generalize the relationship between the
level of ICT knowledge and skills of kindergarten teachers, the level of ICT integration in teaching and learning, and the extent of the
impact on student learning.
Profile of the Teachers
This exudes the profile of the respondents in terms of age, gender, number of years of teaching, highest educational attainment, and
relevant training attended.
Age
Age significantly influences human behavior, development, and interaction, impacting fields like education, psychology, health, and
social sciences. Recognizing age differences is crucial for accurate data interpretation and effective interventions.
Table 2 shows the age distribution of teachers, with most being 31–40 years old, followed by 20–30 years old, and fewer in the 41–50
range. There are no teachers aged 51–60 or over 61.
Younger teachers (20–30) may offer fresh perspectives and tech skills, while older teachers (31–50) bring experience and expertise.
This age distribution impacts educational practices, contrasting with studies indicating older teachers' lower confidence in ICT
integration (Lee, 1997; Teo, 2008; Yaghi, 2001). Older teachers often lack computer education and need training to effectively use
technology in teaching.
Table 2. Age (N = 23)
Items F %
Age (years)
20 - 30 7 30.43
31 - 40 11 47.83
41 – 50 5 21.74
Weighted Mean Standard Deviation
Overall 36.3043 6.5605
Gender
Gender refers to the social, cultural, and psychological attributes and roles that societies assign to men and women. In ICT proficiency
for digital teaching, understanding gender differences helps identify gaps and biases in training. Addressing these needs ensures all
teachers, regardless of gender, are equally proficient with digital tools, enhancing teaching and learning outcomes.
Table 3 shows that all 23 teachers in the sample are female, indicating a gender imbalance. This affects representation and diversity
among educators and highlights the need for an inclusive learning environment.
Contrary to some previous studies (e.g., Russell & Bradley, 1997; Todman, 2000), which found that female teachers reported more
computer anxiety and slower acquisition of computer self-efficacy, this study emphasizes the importance of considering gender in ICT
use in education.
Table 3. Gender (N = 23)
Items F %
Gender
Female 23 100
Years of Teaching
Years of teaching refers to the total time an individual has spent in the teaching profession. This metric helps understand how experience
influences ICT integration in the classroom. Experienced teachers may struggle with new technologies, while newer teachers might be
more tech-savvy but less experienced in classroom management. Tailored professional development based on years of experience can
enhance ICT proficiency and teaching effectiveness.
Table 4 shows that 22 out of 23 teachers (95.65%) have 10 years or less of teaching experience, indicating a predominance of relatively
new teachers. Only one teacher (4.35%) has 11–20 years of experience.
Research generally shows that teaching experience influences ICT use (e.g., Wong & Li, 2008; Giordano, 2007; Hernandez-Ramos,
2005). Gorder (2008) found that experienced teachers' comfort with technology and instructional flexibility correlates with effective
ICT adoption. However, newer teachers tend to integrate technology more readily, as shown by the U.S. National Center for Education
Statistics (2000) data, where less experienced teachers used computers more frequently in their teaching.
Table 4. Years of Teaching (N = 23)
Items F %
Number of years of teaching
10 years below 22 95.65
11- 20 1 4.35
Weighted Mean Standard Deviation
Overall 5.8261 3.2565
online pedagogy. By analyzing the types and frequencies of relevant trainings attended, researchers can identify the correlation between
professional development and ICT proficiency, determining how well-equipped teachers are to utilize technology to enhance student
learning. This understanding can inform the design of targeted training programs that address gaps in knowledge and skills, ultimately
leading to more efficient and effective digital classroom teaching.
The data in Table 6 presents the profile of teachers in terms of the relevant trainings they have attended, particularly related to ICT
(Information and Communication Technology). The data provides seven categories of relevant ICT trainings attended by teachers.
Based on the data, the most attended training category is Blended Learning Strategies, with 14 out of 23 teachers (60.87%) having
attended this training. Online Teaching Tools and Platforms training is the second most attended category, with 11 teachers (47.83%).
Other training categories have lower attendance percentages, ranging from 30.43% to 17.39%.
The data suggests that a significant proportion of teachers have received training in various aspects of ICT in education. This indicates
a growing emphasis on integrating technology into teaching practices. The higher attendance in Blended Learning Strategies and Online
Teaching Tools and Platforms training reflects the increasing importance of online and hybrid learning environments.
Recent research by Gomes (2005) relating to various subjects concluded that lack of training in digital literacy, lack of pedagogic and
didactic training in how to use ICT in the classroom and lack of training concerning technology use in specific subject areas were
obstacles to using new technologies in classroom practice.
Some of the Saudi Arabian studies reported similar reasons for failures in using educational technology: the weakness of teacher
training in the use of computers, the use of a “delivery” teaching style instead of investment in modern technology (Alhamd, Alotaibi,
Motwaly, & Zyadah, 2004), as well as the shortage of teachers qualified to use the technology confidently (Sager, 2001).
Table 6. Relevant Trainings Attended (N = 23)
Items F R
Relevant ICT related trainings
Digital Classroom Management 7 3
Online Teaching Tools and Platforms 11 2
E- Learning Course Development 1 6
Digital Literacy Skills for Educators 3 5
Blended Learning Strategies 14 1
Social Media for Educational Purposes 4 4
The knowledge and skills of kindergarten teachers encompass a diverse range of competencies vital for fostering early childhood
development and facilitating effective learning experiences. Their expertise includes pedagogical strategies, classroom management
techniques, and interpersonal abilities crucial for engaging young learners and collaborating with colleagues and parents. In today's
digital age, proficiency in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become increasingly essential for educators to
enhance teaching practices and engage students effectively. Therefore, assessing the level of proficiency of kindergarten teachers in
ICT is imperative for understanding how well-equipped they are to leverage technology in their instructional methods.
Based on the data presented in Table 7, the level of proficiency of the respondents in ICT (Information and Communication
Technology) in terms of knowledge and skills of kindergarten teachers is at a "very high" level of proficiency. The weighted mean
score for overall proficiency is 3.3913, indicating a "very high" level of proficiency. The standard deviation score of 0.6986 suggests
relatively low variability or high agreement among the respondents regarding their overall ICT proficiency.
The data indicates that the respondents, who are kindergarten teachers, possess a very high level of proficiency in using various ICT
tools and technologies. This proficiency level indicates that they have a good understanding and command of these tools, which can
be beneficial for integrating technology into their teaching practices. Their proficiency in using ICT tools such as the board, LCD
projector, television, audio application, smart phone, and computer can contribute to enhancing their teaching methods and engaging
students in meaningful and interactive learning experiences.
Integration in Teaching and Learning
Integration in teaching and learning refers to the seamless incorporation of various instructional strategies, resources, and technologies
to enhance the educational experience and promote student learning. It involves aligning curriculum objectives with diverse teaching
methods and leveraging tools such as multimedia presentations, online resources, and interactive platforms to create dynamic and
engaging learning environments.
The level of proficiency of respondents in ICT directly influences their ability to effectively integrate technology into their teaching
practices. Educators with higher levels of ICT proficiency are better equipped to leverage digital tools and resources to support diverse
learning styles, foster student engagement, and facilitate interactive and personalized learning experiences.
Table 8. Level of Proficiency of the Respondent in ICT in terms Integration
in Teaching and Learning (N = 23)
The table shows data related to the level of proficiency of the respondents in integrating information and communication technology
(ICT) in teaching and learning. The respondents' proficiency in preparing lessons and reports has a weighted mean of 3.4348 and a
standard deviation of 0.5898. This indicates a "very high" level of proficiency, suggesting that the respondents are highly skilled in this
aspect of ICT integration.
The use of the internet to search for teaching materials has a weighted mean of 3.5652 and a standard deviation of 0.5069, also indicating
a "very high" level of proficiency. It suggests that the respondents are effectively utilizing the internet to find relevant teaching
resources. The respondents' proficiency in providing online work or assignments has a weighted mean of 2.7826 and a standard
deviation of 0.7952, falling under the category of "High" proficiency. This suggests that the respondents have a relatively lower level
of proficiency in this aspect compared to other areas.
Pedagogy and Student Learning
Pedagogy and student learning encompass the methodologies, approaches, and interactions employed by educators to facilitate
meaningful learning experiences for students. Effective pedagogy involves understanding students' diverse needs, designing engaging
lessons, and implementing appropriate instructional strategies to promote active participation and deeper understanding. The level of
proficiency of respondents in ICT significantly influences their ability to implement innovative pedagogical practices that leverage
technology to enhance student learning outcomes. Educators with higher levels of ICT proficiency can effectively integrate digital
tools, multimedia resources, and online platforms into their teaching to create interactive and personalized learning experiences tailored
teaching.
Kindergarten teachers often encounter difficulties in accessing technical support for integrating technology into their teaching.
According to a study conducted by Brown et al. (2019), many kindergarten teachers reported a lack of training and assistance in using
educational technology. This lack of technical support can hinder their ability to effectively incorporate digital tools and resources into
their lessons.
Without both good technical support in the classroom and whole-school resources, teachers cannot be expected to overcome the barriers
preventing them from using ICT (Lewis, 2003). Pelgrum (2001) found that in the view of primary and secondary teachers, one of the
top barriers to ICT use in education was lack of technical assistance. In Sicilia's study (2005), technical problems were found to be a
major barrier for teachers.
Overall, the highest ranked, with a weighted mean of 2.2609, is the lack of electronic devices or tools, such as computers, in
Kindergarten classrooms. The absence of these essential resources significantly hampers teachers' ability to integrate ICT effectively.
Without access to devices, Kindergarten teachers face limitations in utilizing digital resources and incorporating interactive learning
experiences into their lessons. Addressing this challenge should be a top priority, as it forms the foundation for successful ICT
integration in the early childhood classroom.
On the other hand, the lowest ranked is the lack of technical support provided to Kindergarten teachers. Teachers require assistance
and troubleshooting support when encountering ICT-related issues in their teaching. Accessible technical support can help alleviate
teachers' concerns, boost their confidence, and enable them to navigate the complexities of integrating technology effectively.
Table 10. Problem faced by the Kindergarten Teachers in terms of ICT
Integration (N = 23)
Significant Correlation Between The Level Of Proficiency Of The Respondent In Ict In Terms Of Knowledge And Skills Of
Kindergarten Teachers And The Impact Of Teachers’ Ict Proficiency On Pedagogy And Student Learning
Based on the data presented of Table 11, there is no significant relationship between the level of proficiency of kindergarten teachers
in ICT (Information and Communication Technology) in terms of knowledge and skills and the impact of teachers' ICT proficiency on
pedagogy and student learning.
The Pearson correlation coefficient is 0.019674782, which indicates a very weak positive correlation. However, the significance value
(p-value) associated with the correlation coefficient is stated as 0.928999851, which is much greater than the conventional significance
level of 0.05. This indicates that there is no strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis (H0) that there is no relationship between the
variables.
Therefore, there is no significant relationship between the level of proficiency of kindergarten teachers in ICT and the impact of their
ICT proficiency on pedagogy and student learning. This implies that the level of ICT proficiency among teachers may not have a
substantial effect on their teaching methods or students' learning outcomes in this context.
Table 11. Significant correlation between the level of proficiency of the
respondent in ict in terms of knowledge and skills of kindergarten teachers
and the impact of teachers’ ict proficiency on pedagogy and student learning
Pearson Correlation 0.019674782
Sig. (2-tail) 0.928999851
Decision Accept H0
Interpretation No significant relationship
Significant Correlation Between The Level Of Proficiency Of The Respondent In Ict In Terms Of Ict Integration In Teaching
And Learning And The Impact Of Teachers’ Ict Proficiency On Pedagogy And Student Learning
Nancy T. Bantaculo 1113/1115
Psych Educ, 2024, 23(9): 1104-1115, Document ID:2024PEMJ2217, doi:10.5281/zenodo.13334740, ISSN 2822-4353
Research Article
Based on the data presented, there is no significant correlation between the level of proficiency of the respondents in ICT in terms of
ICT integration in teaching and learning and the impact of teachers' ICT proficiency on pedagogy and student learning.
The Pearson correlation coefficient is 0.150308, which indicates a weak positive correlation. However, the significance value (p-value)
associated with the correlation coefficient is stated as 0.493623343, which is greater than the conventional significance level of 0.05.
This indicates that there is no strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis (H0) that there is no relationship between the variables.
Therefore, there is no significant relationship between the level of proficiency in ICT integration in teaching and learning and the
impact of teachers' ICT proficiency on pedagogy and student learning. This implies that the level of ICT integration skills among
teachers may not have a substantial effect on their teaching methods or students' learning.
Table 12. Significant correlation between the level of proficiency of the
respondent in ict in terms of ict integration in teaching and learning and
the impact of teachers’ ict proficiency on pedagogy and student learning
Pearson Correlation 0.150308
Sig. (2-tail) 0.493623343
Decision Accept H0
Interpretation No significant relationship
Significant Relationship between the Teachers’ ICT Proficiency and its Level of Impact on Pedagogy and Student Learning
Based on the data presented, there is no significant relationship between teachers' ICT proficiency and its level of impact on pedagogy
and student learning. The Pearson correlation coefficient is 0.1086, indicating a very weak positive correlation. However, the
significance value (p-value) associated with the correlation coefficient is stated as 0.6219, which is much greater than the conventional
significance level of 0.05 . This suggests that there is no strong evidence to reject the null hypothesis (H0) that there is no relationship
between the variables.
Therefore, there is no significant relationship between teachers' ICT proficiency and its impact on pedagogy and student learning. This
implies that the level of ICT proficiency among teachers may not have a substantial effect on their pedagogical practices or students'
learning outcomes in this particular context.
Table 13. Significant Relationship between the Teachers’ ICT Proficiency
and its Level of Impact on Pedagogy and Student Learning
Pearson Correlation .1086
Sig. (2-tail) .6219
Decision Accept H0
Interpretation No significant relationship
Conclusions
In conclusion, this study explored the intricate dynamics of teachers' age, experience, and gender concerning ICT utilization in language
teaching and learning. The findings revealed that while age and teaching experience did not significantly influence ICT use, there was
a notable discrepancy between male and female teachers in this regard. Moreover, the study highlighted a concerning lack of ICT
training among the participating teachers, underscoring the urgent need for targeted professional development initiatives. These results
underscore the critical importance of enhancing ICT integration in EFL language teaching and learning contexts, particularly in Saudi
universities. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of the study, which may have impacted the obtained results. Moving
forward, future research endeavors should explore the nuanced interactions between teachers' demographic factors and ICT integration
more comprehensively.
Nonetheless, the findings align with the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) Theory, as they emphasize the
positive impact of ICT proficiency on pedagogy and student learning. Despite the challenges faced by kindergarten teachers in
integrating ICT into their practices, the study underscores the transformative potential of ICT in enhancing educational experiences
and outcomes. Thus, concerted efforts are warranted to empower teachers with the necessary skills and support to navigate the digital
landscape effectively.
To address the challenges and enhance the integration of ICT in kindergarten classrooms, the following recommendations are
suggested:
Develop and provide targeted professional development programs for kindergarten teachers to enhance their ICT proficiency and
knowledge. These programs should focus on both technical skills and pedagogical strategies for effective ICT integration.
Ensure that kindergarten teachers have access to adequate technical support to address any issues related to ICT integration. Provide
necessary resources such as software, websites, and electronic devices and tools that support ICT integration in teaching.
Increase awareness among kindergarten teachers about the benefits and effective strategies for integrating ICT into their pedagogy.
Provide training opportunities that help teachers develop a deeper understanding of ICT integration and acquire the necessary skills to