Technological literacy and its influence on teachers’ adoption of a blended learning approach

Abstract

Background: The teachers in one sub-district in the North West province lacked technological knowledge and skills thus did not adopt a blended learning approach in their daily teaching. A partnership between the University of South Africa (Unisa) and schools in the district was forged to train teachers to acquire technological knowledge and skills.

Objectives: To identify which online tools Unisa imparted to teachers, investigate how the acquired skills and knowledge helped teachers to adopt a blended learning approach and find out challenges that go with the application of technology.

Method: Data were obtained through observation, one-on-one individual interviews and focus group discussions.

Results: The Unisa training helped develop teachers’ knowledge and skills in the use of TEAMS, Emails, WhatsApp, you tube and the electronic content- material. Teachers gave learners the electronic content (presentation slides and You-videos, question banks) for revision purposes. During the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) learners were given work to do while at home using WhatsApp.

Conclusion: The article concludes by indicating that partnerships between schools and institutions of higher learning are a necessity to empower teachers on the use of technology which will lead to the use of a blended learning approach.

Contribution: The article adds to the body of knowledge by indicating the need for retraining of teachers especially on technological skills to prepare them for 4th Industrial Revolution and meet the needs of the new cohort of learners-born after technology.