The use of participatory technologies in teaching and learning in higher education: a case study of two institutions.
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Date
2016-10
Authors
M'kulama, Abel
Mwiinga, Thabiso, Mayaba
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Africa federation of teaching regulatory authorities (AFTRA), international journal of teaching and learning in africa.
Abstract
Participatory technologies offer great opportunities for teaching and learning.As a result, learning
institutions are increasingly using various interactive technologies such as learning management
systems (LMS). This study was conducted to investigate the use of participatory technologies in
education at the University of Sheffield and the University of Zambia (UNZA). The study employed
mixed methods and case study design to help address the objectives. Data collection involved
use ofquestionnaires,an interview guide and analysis of official documents. Participants included
five lecturers from the University of Sheffield, School of Information (iSchool) and another five
from UNZA department of Library studies. The participants were selected using purposive and
convenience sampling procedures.Findings show that educators are using technologies in teaching
and learning and perceive technologies as essential in enhancing interactive learning. Popularly
used educational technologies are LMS (e.g. Blackboard and Moodle), Blogs, Video-sharing (e.g.
YouTube), social networking sites (e.g. Facebook and Twitter), and Wikis. Results also revealed
that lecturers use participatory technologies for purposes including transfer of course information,
clarifying and applying course concepts; collaboration and exchange of ideas, and assessment
and grading purposes. Regarding challenges faced in using participatory technologies, the study
revealed unequal access to high speed technologies (e.g. smart phones and tablets) by students,
inadequate ICT facilities, time constraints, lack of training for lecturers and lack of institutional
support. In conclusion, the study established that various educational technologies are being used
for educational purposes. However, effective use is hampered by various challenges. To make
the most of participatory technologies in higher education, we recommend adoptionof interactive
pedagogies, invest in adequate ICT facilities and provide consistent training and support to
lecturers.
Description
Keywords
Technologies. , Teaching and learning. , Pedagogy. , Higher education.