Underneath the veneer of techno-positivity – exploring teachers’ perspectives on technology use in Further Education and Training

ABSTRACT

This qualitative study explores the views of nine teachers working in the Further Education and Training in Ireland regarding the use of technology. Drawing on in-depth interviews, thematic analysis exposed a techno-positive perspective and a hierarchy of technologies with newer technologies being valued more. A sort of ‘intangible’ quality is ascribed to technology, which we labelled ‘techno-magic’. The study uncovered a phenomenon of ‘techno-guilt’ where teachers blamed themselves for not using new technologies. The study concludes that there needs to be a new dialogue that moves beyond pro/anti-technology and empowers teachers to approach technology with a more critical perspective.

KEYWORDS:

• Technology Enhance Learning (TEL)
• teachers attitudes
• Further Education and Training (FET)

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1. See SOLAS FET Services Plan 2018, p.31–34

2. Youthreach is Irelands nation programme for early school leavers. It is described in more detail in the methodology section to follow.

3. Action research project to embed critical reflection in FET teacher learning technology professional development