The impact of educator engagement with computers on their teaching practice and the way they think about their teaching.

• Main Author: Pretorius, Erica Delores
• Published: 2009
• Subjects: computer managed instruction; computer-assisted instruction; teaching practice
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/1961

M.Ed. === Teaching and learning is the main focus at any school, but this takes place within the framework of a national educational system. There have been numerous changes in education during the last decade in South Africa, including the advancement of computers. The focus of teaching and learning has moved towards the learner centered approach of Outcomes Based Education and integrating computers into schools has been more focused on learners. This study, however, focuses on educators and investigates whether using computers can encourage teachers to reflect on, and improve their current teaching and learning practices. This qualitative study investigated the impact of teachers using computers for teaching and learning purposes. A literature review was conducted, which included teaching and learning theories, approaches, strategies and styles, as well as educator engagement with computers. A description of natural occurring events within the practice of teaching and learning at a selected primary school was used. The data were collected from surveys, interviews, questionnaires and checklists, completed by educators and learners.