TYPOLOGY OF CZECH TEACHERS IN 2ND STAGE OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS BY THEIR ATTITUDES AND METHODS OF USING DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
Palacký University Olomouc, Faculty of Education (CZECH REPUBLIC)
About this paper:
Conference name: 10th International Technology, Education and Development Conference
Dates: 7-9 March, 2016
Location: Valencia, Spain
Abstract:
The paper describes the results of a research study investigating whether Czech teachers in 2nd stage of elementary schools can be divided into the assumed two typical groups according to their attitudes to digital technologies. The research method used was the generalized cluster analysis. The research sample consisted of 85 randomly selected teachers from 2nd stage of elementary schools of various specializations, ages, experience, and locations of the school. The cluster analysis included the following variables: attitude of elementary school teachers to digital technologies expressed by the degree of their agreement with 19 statements on a six-point scale, preferences and frequency of use of digital technologies and other personal characteristics of the teachers. It was observed that Czech teachers in 2nd stage of elementary schools can be divided into two typical groups, one of which tends to accept digital technologies, has a subjectively better idea about them and uses them more often is classes. This group of respondents slightly prevails (57%). The results of the research are also compared with the results of an identical research study by the author carried out in 2004. In 2015, compared with 2004, we observed an anticipated shift towards more intensive use of digital technologies, and greater virtual communication and the use of the internet by teachers in 2nd stage of elementary schools.Keywords:
Typology of Czech teachers, attitudes to digital technologies, generalized cluster analysis.