Teachers’ Perceptions and Experiences of using Digital Technology in Undergraduate Classrooms in Pakistan

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of teachers about the use of technology in faceto-face and online classes. A qualitative case study design was adopted in this study. The year III and IV teachers of thenursing programme who were using technology in their teaching were invited to participate in this study. Data werecollected through semi-structured interviews, class observations and analysis of the university’s virtual learningenvironment course sites. The teachers felt that students wanted activities that were engaging, and through Mentimeter,Kahoot and Padlet this was possible in the class. With online classes, the teachers were using Microsoft Teams, whereasthe students preferred the Zoom platform as they thought it was more user-friendly. It was also felt by the teachers thatstudents do not give much preference to PowerPoint presentations now and want a variety that can enhance their learningexperience. However, the teachers also faced issues with the computers or internet not working smoothly in the class andfor this, they had to keep a backup plan in place. For online classes, the teachers shared course material on Whatsapp orMoodle course sites for students who could not come online during a specific time. The teachers also admit that their ownability to use technology in face-to-face or online classes counted a lot towards how their lessons shaped up. The findingsconcluded that the universities should provide sufficient support and training to teachers in using technology effectivelyfor teaching purposes.