Assessing the impact of teacher characteristics, learner methods, and self-guided learning on technology adoption in mathematics instruction

Abstract

This study explores the complex interplay between teacher attributes, learner instructional approaches, and the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in mathematics education, highlighting their collective impact on educational outcomes. Through a comprehensive survey of 196 teachers and 315 learners, the research delves into the relationships between teacher experience, educational qualifications, and the frequency and manner of technology use in the classroom. The analysis reveals that younger educators and those possessing advanced academic credentials are more inclined to actively incorporate ICTs into their teaching practices, demonstrating a higher level of comfort and enthusiasm for leveraging these tools to enhance student learning. Conversely, the study finds that more experienced teachers, particularly those with lower qualifications, tend to utilize technology less frequently, possibly due to a preference for traditional teaching methods or a lack of confidence in their ability to effectively integrate new technologies. Additionally, the study investigates the strategies employed by learners, with a particular focus on web-based self-learning approaches, such as the use of online educational videos and interactive platforms. The data indicates a significant positive correlation between these strategies and improved academic performance in mathematics, suggesting that learner-centered approaches that emphasize self-directed, technology-mediated learning can lead to better educational outcomes. These findings underscore the critical importance of considering both teacher characteristics and learner-centered instructional methods when developing strategies for the effective integration of technology in mathematics education. By tailoring these strategies to meet the diverse needs and preferences of educators, while simultaneously promoting effective self-learning techniques among students, educational institutions can better harness the potential of ICTs to improve learning outcomes in mathematics and beyond.