Research Article
Merih Welay Welesilassie, Berhane Gerencheal, Seifu Berihu
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 17, Issue 4, Article No: ep605
ABSTRACT
Digital inclusion is crucial for providing equitable educational opportunities for students with disabilities. However, significant barriers remain prevalent in low-resource contexts. This study is a beacon of understanding, examining the acceptance, perceptions, and obstacles related to educational technology engagement among young Ethiopian students with physical disabilities. Utilizing an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, quantitative data were collected from 87 students, followed by in-depth interviews with 12 participants to gain deeper insights into their experiences. The results indicated a strong acceptance and perceived usefulness of digital tools for promoting independent learning and productivity. Nevertheless, students encountered substantial challenges, including a lack of digital readiness support, inadequate infrastructure, high costs, and insufficient teacher training. Structural equation modeling analysis revealed that digital readiness support, acceptance, and trust were significant predictors of students’ willingness to adopt digital technologies. Qualitative findings further illuminated socio-cultural barriers, such as stigma and social exclusion, which hinder effective digital engagement. Utilizing the technology acceptance model in conjunction with the digital divide theory, the findings of this study provide significant insights into the challenges of digital access in Ethiopian educational institutions. The proposed inclusive framework seeks to address critical infrastructural and cultural barriers, thereby promoting equity for students with disabilities. This research underscores the importance of developing and implementing strategies that enhance digital accessibility and inclusion within the educational landscape.
Keywords: digital inclusion, students with disabilities, technology acceptance model, digital divide theory, inclusive education
Research Article
Sugiyanto, Chatarina Muryani, Dannis Ni’matussyahara
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 16, Issue 3, Article No: ep521
ABSTRACT
Indonesia’s geographical positioning along the ‘Ring of Fire’ exposes it to frequent seismic activities, making effective disaster mitigation education crucial. Current educational strategies may not adequately foster the necessary empathy and understanding among students regarding the socio-environmental impacts of disasters. This study aims to develop and evaluate a digital learning platform designed to enhance GeoCapabilities in students, particularly focusing on the social-environmental empathy dimension. The objective is to improve students’ empathetic responses to disaster scenarios through integrated disaster mitigation pedagogy. Utilizing the design-based research method, this research involved a systematic blend of iterative development and evaluation phases to refine educational interventions. Data collection was achieved through a combination of qualitative feedback from students and quantitative pre-and post-test measures to assess empathy levels. Data analysis involved statistical testing to determine the effectiveness of the digital learning platform in enhancing empathetic capabilities among learners. The research reveals that the digital learning platform (D-Learning), significantly improves students’ empathy towards disaster impacts. Students demonstrated a deeper understanding and emotional engagement with the content, highlighting an increase in their ability to empathize with affected communities. The findings suggest that the scalability of D-Learning can be tailored to different regions, providing a valuable tool for enhancing disaster preparedness worldwide. The integration of technology and empathy-focused pedagogy in disaster education could serve as a model for developing similar educational programs globally, aiming to foster a more resilient and empathetic future generation.
Keywords: digital learning, disaster mitigation, empathy, GeoCapabilities
Research Article
Nicole L. Weber, Corine McCarthy, Katie Campbell, Hannah Bauer
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 16, Issue 3, Article No: ep510
ABSTRACT
As new technologies and learning practices emerge, the way instructional design and learning technology (IDLT) professionals conduct their work evolves. With this constant evolution comes a change in employer expectations of IDLT professionals. This convergent mixed methods study analyzed 130 IDLT-related position descriptions and interviewed 12 IDLT leaders from the K12, nonprofit, higher education, and corporate sectors to identify current expectations related to degree qualifications, knowledge, skills, and abilities expected from IDLT professionals. Results included a preference for a master’s degree-level qualification, at times due to bureaucracy, and an interest in the combination of academic preparation with instructional design experience. Additionally, employers shared that they were interested in an advanced understanding and adaptable application of IDLT theories, models, and frameworks, as well as a need for non-specific IDLT skills (e.g., communication and collaboration) and familiarity with IDLT-related technologies (e.g., learning management system and course authoring software). These results provide valuable insight for those looking to join IDLT field, current IDLT professionals interested in upskilling, and educational programs preparing future IDLT professionals for the workforce.
Keywords: instructional design, learning technology, K12, higher education, corporate, non-profit, KSAs, knowledge, skills, abilities