Investigating the impact of using an active pedagogic approach to teaching with technology on student learning.

Abstract

The use of technology in the classroom has been a topic of debate for many years. Several researchers have done much work on how best technology can be integrated successfully into the classroom. Some argue that technology can be a valuable tool for enhancing student learning, while others believe that it can be a distraction and lead to decreased engagement. Research has made it clear that using an active learning approach to teaching and learning might make the results a bit more positively predictable. This study investigated the impact of using an active pedagogic approach to teaching with technology on student learning at a primary school in Nigeria. This study is a case study that made use of action intervention research, passing selected participants through seven weeks of teaching using the Activated Classroom Teaching (ACT) model as the intervention. The ACT model is an active learning pedagogical approach that passes students through six layers of increased activities – consumption, curation, conversation, correction, creation and chaos, ensuring student engagement. This study used a mixed method approach and so data was collected from a sample of 91 students through a questionnaire and 4 teachers through a focus group discussion. Secondary data as well as scores from teachermade tests were also collected to add robustness to the data. Quantitative analysis was done using SPSS, with other statistical tests and t-tests carried out as well. Qualitative analysis was done as the FGD was transcribed, coded and major themes were derived and discussed. The findings of this study suggest that using an active pedagogic approach to teaching with technology, such as the ACT model, can be an effective way to increase student engagement and academic performance, thereby enhancing student learning. Specifically, results revealed that the ACT model has a positive impact on the affective engagement and academic performance of students. Although students have high behavioural and cognitive engagement, there is a slight decrease in these engagement parameters for the students. Furthermore, the ACT model provides a pedagogical framework for teachers to use technology in a way that engages students and promotes deep learning. Investigating the Impact of Using an Active Pedagogic Approach to Teaching with Technology on Student Learning - Adeboye Daniel O. (2023) This study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing evidence that using an active pedagogic approach to teaching with technology can be an effective way to increase student engagement and academic performance. Additionally, it provides valuable insights for teachers who are considering using technology in their classrooms and suggests that for teachers to teach effectively with technology and get the desired results, they must be trained to engage the affordances of technology and teach using an active pedagogical approach.