How Teachers Are Using Technology at Home and in ... - Prisa Digital

IV. The Impact of the Internet and Digital Tools
on Teachers’ Professional Development
The AP and NWP teachers in this study not only use digital tools in an effort to improve the learning
experience for students, but also use these tools in their own training, development, and
professionalization. For most, the greatest impact of the internet and other digital tools on their role as
teachers has been access to more content and material for use in the classroom and a greater ability to
keep up with developments in their field. To a slightly lesser extent, these teachers use digital tools to
share ideas and experiences with other teachers. In terms of professional support and training in how
best to use new digital tools in their classrooms, the vast majority of these teachers are satisfied with
the support and training schools provide. At the same time, most say they rely mainly on their own
research and experience when developing new ways of bringing technology to the learning process.
AP and NWP teachers say the internet and other digital tools have had mixed
impacts in shaping the lives of educators
Asked about potential impacts the internet and digital tools might have on teachers, these AP and NWP
teachers see both benefits and potential downsides. The greatest impact they see is increased access to
content, resources and materials for their teaching; 92% of these teachers say the internet has had a
“major impact” in this regard. At the same time, three-quarters of these teachers say the internet and
other digital tools have had a “major impact” on the range of content and skills they must be
knowledgeable about. Just over two-thirds note “major impact” on their ability to share ideas with
other teachers and enabling interaction with parents.
Another area where impact is felt is in the sheer amount of work required from teachers. This theme
emerged in focus groups, where some noted feeling responsible today for not only subject matter
expertise, but also expertise in the latest tech gadgets. In the full survey of AP and NWP teachers, 41%
say they have felt a “major impact” in this area and another 42% say they feel a “minor impact.” Thus,
more than eight in 10 AP and NWP teachers have felt some increase in workload as the internet and
other digital tools become a greater part of the learning process.
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