In their Ideal Future, Are Preservice Teachers Willing to Integrate Technology in Their Teaching and why?

Abstract

AbstractPreservice teachers’ beliefs regarding technology integration significantly influence their future teaching practices. This qualitative study examines the beliefs and intentions of 51 preservice teachers within the context of technology integration in their envisioned teaching scenarios. Thematic analysis identified three primary themes. Firstly, participants expressed their intentions to integrate technology into teaching, with 74% exhibiting a high intention, 22% moderate, and 4% low. Secondly, value beliefs encompassed positive perceptions supported by interest and usefulness, including eight roles of technology (e.g., facilitators, quality enhancers) and four concerns (e.g., equity, safety). Negative beliefs such as distraction were also identified. Thirdly, pedagogical beliefs varied, with 49% holding student-centered views, 37% being teacher-centered, and 14% balanced perspectives. Crosstab analysis explored relationships between technology integration intention levels, value beliefs, and pedagogical beliefs. These findings offer insights into preservice teachers’ beliefs on technology integration, informing teacher education programs and strategies to enhance technology integration in classrooms.