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p-Index From 2021 - 2026
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All Journal Research in Social Sciences and Technology
Elma Marais
North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
Education

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A journey through digital storytelling during COVID-19 Students preparedness to use technology for learning in the language classroom Elma Marais
Research in Social Sciences and Technology Vol 6 No 2 (2021): Research in Social Sciences and Technology (Special Issue)
Publisher : Research in Social Sciences and Technology- OpenED Network

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46303/ressat.2021.17

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced lecturers at South African universities to reconceptualise their teaching and learning activities. Universities had to embark on remote teaching to salvage the 2020 academic year. This created the opportunity to draw on students’ creative and digital skills to promote digital storytelling as a way of enhancing their learning experience. This article describes the journey of a teacher educator and a group of students registered for a language didactics module in an initial teacher education programme. Film study was traditionally presented through lively conversations in a contact session where students could exchange their perceptions and opinions regarding various aspects of film. Because of the COVID-19 lockdown this approach had to be reviewed. The lecturer in question employed digital learning competencies to transform learning through the innovative use of digital tools and resources to rethink student engagement with film. Students were invited to create digital stories. The outcome of the process not only improved their understanding of teaching film but also promoted their digital competencies and empowered them to create resources they could use in their careers.
A COVID-19 Re-envisioned Teaching Practicum Curriculum Carisma Nel; Carolina Botha; Elma Marais
Research in Social Sciences and Technology Vol 6 No 2 (2021): Research in Social Sciences and Technology (Special Issue)
Publisher : Research in Social Sciences and Technology- OpenED Network

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46303/ressat.2021.29

Abstract

The changes taking place in the schooling landscape because of the coronavirus are real and meaningful and have implications for the training of preservice teachers, especially the teaching practicum component of their initial teacher education programs. The havoc caused by COVID-19 forced many faculties of education into a state of ‘panic-gogy’ to ensure that student teachers could complete their teaching practicums. In this paper we argue that consideration should be given to core teaching practices and practice-based teacher education pedagogies (i.e., representations and approximations) that can be used in alternative “placement contexts” that will supplement and harness the authenticity of school-based experiences. We provide two conceptual tools, collaboratively developed by teaching practicum educators and mentor teachers, that can be used as heuristic by other university-school partnerships when considering teaching practicum redesign efforts.
The Development of Digital Competencies in Pre-Service Teachers Elma Marais
Research in Social Sciences and Technology Vol 8 No 3 (2023): Research in Social Sciences and Technology
Publisher : Research in Social Sciences and Technology- OpenED Network

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46303/ressat.2023.28

Abstract

Even before the Covid-19 pandemic created a historic pivotal moment for teacher training programmes on a global scale, the development of digital competencies has been regarded as a focal point for teachers. Tertiary institutions had just become accustomed to including technology in their curricula when Covid-19 forced a critical re-evaluation of the current practice. In a mere matter of days, the use of technology was not only a point for discussion anymore; it was lived. The ability of teacher educators to teach with technology had a direct impact on student success. Connectivity, access to suitable devices and sustainable training and support were now important considerations for teacher educators. The harsh reality soon became clear: Although some tertiary institutions could support pre-service teachers regarding access, connectivity and suitable devices, many students lacked the digital competencies to use the technology required for academic progress and success. It is evident that, in post-Covid-19 academia, the enhancement of digital competencies will remain a priority for teacher training programmes. The integration of digital competencies with content and pedagogical knowledge is essential for the successful training of future teachers. This article thus reflects on the efforts of a tertiary institution in South Africa to address the inclusion of technology in its curriculum through newly developed content that focuses on the enhancement of digital competency. Recommendations indicate that the effective inclusion of technology and digital competencies does not have to include major curricular changes but should rather become embedded within modules such as teaching practice.
Co-Authors Carisma Nel Carolina Botha