Keyword: technology

ABSTRACT: This study analyzes students’ perceptions of the Brazilian Law No. 15.100/2025, which prohibits mobile phone use in basic education, and explores its relation to screen time and digital well-being in urban and rural schools. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire with multiple-choice, Likert-scale, and open-ended questions, administered face-to-face to 199 students in grades 6–9 (100 from the rural area (RA), 99 from the urban area). Descriptive and inferential analyses (t-tests and chi-square tests) were applied to compare groups. Results showed that RA students agreed more strongly that the ban helps concentration (mean = 3.26 vs 2.29; t = 4.55; p < 0.001) and perceived it more positively overall (mean = 2.93 vs 2.20; t = 3.73; p = 0.0003). Both groups, however, recognized the pedagogical potential of mobile phones when purposefully integrated into lessons (76.4% agreement). Open-ended responses revealed mixed experiences in reducing screen time, with reports ranging from anxiety to improved focus and social interaction. This exploratory classroom-based report combines quantitative data and pedagogical reflection to illustrate students’ attitudes toward digital well-being and promote conscious technology use in education.

ABSTRACT: This study was about the low uptake of eLearning in Tanzanian higher learning institutions. A lack of investment in equipment, poor internet services, and a lack of technical skills among instructors are mentioned as the major factors for the low uptake of eLearning in Tanzania and worldwide. To the contrary, the study found that 100% of instructors in Tanzania used PowerPoint presentations, which is one major aspect of eLearning, while only 2% of them used videos. Even after improving computer availability, internet connection, and training, 98% of instructors still did not adopt video content. It is concluded that, due to fear of loss of face among instructors, the pace of adoption of video content as part of eLearning is slow. From the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) perspective, even if perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEU) are favorable, unless fear of loss of face is reduced, acceptance will be slow. In addition to PU and PEU, fear of loss of face is recommended to be included as one of the constructs of the TAM. When striving to adopt eLearning, institutional administrators are advised to pay attention to psychological barriers in addition to PU and PEU.

ABSTRACT: This study examines the relationship between postgraduate students’ technology skills and their perceptions of research, utilizing two psychometrically validated tools: the Technology Skills Assessment Tool (TSAT) and the Research Perception Scale (RPS). The research was conducted among 117 Master of Arts MA and M.Ed. students across government and private higher education institutions in India. The study employed a purely quantitative design using random sampling. Results from reliability analysis and exploratory factor analysis confirmed the internal consistency and construct validity of both instruments. Descriptive statistics indicated a moderate to high level of technology proficiency and positive research perception among students. Pearson’s correlation revealed significant associations between key technology domains (e.g., digital literacy, data analysis) and research confidence, motivation, and aspirations. Multiple regression analysis further established that digital skills significantly predicted students’ perceptions across different dimensions of research engagement. Additionally, no significant differences were observed across gender, program, or institution type. These findings highlight the relevance of embedding digital skill development into postgraduate curricula to strengthen research competence. The study concludes with implications for curriculum planners, teacher educators, and researchers, recommending the adoption of digitally enriched, practice-oriented research training in higher education.

ABSTRACT: In increasingly multicultural and multilingual societies, foreign language learning has become essential not only for communication but also for social cohesion and professional advancement. Distance education has emerged as a flexible and accessible solution, particularly for adults seeking to enhance their linguistic and intercultural competencies. This study explores the views of foreign language teachers regarding the role of distance education in promoting multilingualism, with a specific focus on culturally diverse border regions. Conducted in the Regional Unit of Evros, Greece, the research adopts a qualitative methodology based on semi-structured interviews with five language educators working in public and private education. Findings reveal that teachers recognize the potential of digital tools such as Massive Open Online Courses, machine translation applications (e.g., Google Translate, DeepL), and adaptive learning platforms to support multilingual learning, particularly when used as supplementary resources. However, concerns were raised about the lack of personalized feedback, limited interactivity, and the absence of culturally contextualized content on existing platforms. Teachers emphasized the importance of digital literacy, pedagogical training, and culturally inclusive design to ensure effective implementation. The study highlights the need for targeted support for educators in border regions and calls for more locally adapted digital resources that reflect linguistic diversity. These findings offer insights for policymakers and educational technology developers aiming to improve the quality and reach of multilingual education in remote or underserved areas.

ABSTRACT: This study explores learner experiences with augmented podcasts (APs), an innovative multimodal learning format that uses two formats in this case: MP3 file + PDF file of the screenshots used in the lecture. Situated within a larger mixed method study, this qualitative analysis is an extension of the earlier quantitative findings that evaluated effectiveness of APs through test scores. The present study delves into the uncaptured nuances of learner engagement—examining how students interact with, experience, and make meaning from this novel format. Using purposive sampling from Tier 2 and Tier 3 Indian cities, the study makes use of interviews conducted with 20 students to identify perceived facilitators and barriers to AP use. Findings of this study reveal that this experience of learning using APs which encourage learner autonomy, fostered enhanced cognitive engagement, multisensory integration, and deeper involvement. It was noted that students valued the format’s integrated cues and layered delivery, which encouraged focused learning and sustained attention. However, issues with pacing, language accessibility, and digital fatigue were mentioned by some students. This study adds to the growing discourse about inclusive, scalable, and learner-informed digital innovations in education by elevating the voices of students while confirming the pedagogical value of APs.

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to research the factors that cause school dropout and whether technology can positively influence the reduction of this phenomenon in adolescents. The research method was conducted using a qualitative-exploratory approach. The sample was 92 students from two schools located in two different regions in Costa Rica for the year 2021. The results show that the gender distribution and the dropout rate in the selected sample indicate that the male gender has the highest dropout rate at 65.22%. This result shows the abundance of unskilled jobs for men and the value system associated with the male gender. The findings evidence that the female gender has a higher level of dropouts in rural areas (53.12%), and one important reason is teenage pregnancy. In conclusion, students who drop out of the school system do so mainly because of a lack of interest in classes and economic problems in the family environment. Finally, it is concluded that for a virtual education process to be successful, it is not only enough to use technology as a tool, but the teacher must also establish a teaching model that is agile, flexible, and dynamic to maintain the student’s interest. Among the recommendations, measures are proposed to reduce school dropout rates in institutions.

ABSTRACT: This study investigates artificial intelligence (AI) psychological empowerment in education, examining how AI tools enhance students’ sense of competence, autonomy, and engagement beyond the effects of material empowerment (e.g., task performance
improvements). Using a quasi-experimental design, we compared Chinese domestic students in China and Chinese international students in Australia to assess whether AI psychological empowerment is both tangible and more impactful than material empowerment. We highlight several nuanced ways AI fosters personal growth and self-perception. Our findings reveal that, while AI material empowerment is beneficial, psychological empowerment has a stronger influence on motivation and self-perception, particularly for international students compared to local students, despite both groups completing the same English writing task. These results suggest that AI’s role in education extends beyond traditional material support, offering transformative psychological empowerment that enhances students’ confidence in academic contexts. This empowerment reasonably translates into greater personal adaptability and, ultimately, personal growth. The study contributes to the growing literature on AI in education, providing insights for scholars, educators, and policymakers seeking to leverage AI for holistic student development. Notably, generative AI (GAI) emerges as a critical tool for cultural and linguistic adaptation, particularly for immigrant students navigating foreign academic systems. Furthermore, the psychological empowerment effects of GAI appear to be context-dependent, with stronger impacts observed in students facing greater cultural or linguistic barriers. These findings emphasize AI’s potential to foster personal growth and resilience across diverse learning contexts. Finally, we recommend that educational policies and practices be tailored to leverage GAI for immigrant populations, paving the way for more equitable educational opportunities.

ABSTRACT: The total quality management (TQM) is a management practice based on the idea of continuous quality improvement of an organization’s products and services, identifying and eliminating problems right from the root, with the participation of all members. For
an educational institution, TQM can improve the quality of education, help with the learning process, provide an atmosphere with less risk of inadequate decisions, and many more. In educational institutions, the implementation of TQM is the responsibility of process approach, management responsibility, customer focus, and continuous improvement. Specifically, digital infrastructure, digital technology, and digital capabilities affect TQM practices directly. This article provides a synthesis and analysis of findings from 51 international publications on the implementation of TQM in secondary schools. This study revealed that more than the commonly stated advantages, addressing the soft facets including student/stakeholder contentment, leadership, continuous enhancement of processes and systems, teacher coaching, and effective use of technology are critical elements for successful implementation of TQM. In addition to that educational managers have to make an espousal to TQM as an omnibus management philosophy, as a supportive culture and enabling the involvement of all stakeholders.

ABSTRACT: This study investigates the crucial interplay between the motivation of pre-service teachers and the academic performance of primary school pupils in basic science and technology subjects within the Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey method was used. The sample comprised 200 pre-service teachers and primary six students in government primary schools in Oyi Local Government Area. The researchers also constructed questionnaires and administered them to the sampled population inOyi Local Government Area of Anambra State. Preliminary findings underscore the significance of pre-service teacher motivation in shaping the academic success of primary school pupils. These attributes contribute to a more conducive and effective learning environment, ultimately benefitting the academic performance of primary school pupils. However, challenges persist in providing consistent settlements, recognition, instructional materials, and retraining opportunities for pre-service teachers. Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustaining teacher motivation, improving teaching quality, and enhancing the educational experience for students.

ABSTRACT: This narrative review critically examines the application of gamification in higher education. Gamification, the integration of game elements into learning, is increasingly used to enhance student engagement and motivation. However, the effectiveness of gamification depends on its alignment with learning objectives. Superficial use of game elements, such as irrelevant badges, can hinder meaningful learning outcomes. Moreover, over-reliance on extrinsic rewards can lead to short-term motivation but may compromise deep learning. Additionally, a competitive culture fostered by gamification might hinder collaboration and stress individual achievement. To harness gamification’s benefits, educators must carefully design game mechanics to promote collaboration, select suitable activities, and consider diverse learning styles. This review underscores the need for thoughtful integration of gamification and the importance of evaluating its impact on pedagogical goals in higher education. The article concludes by providing implications for research and practice.