ERIC Number: EJ1166015
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017
Pages: 26
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1499-6677
EISSN: N/A
Teachers' Perceptions of the Need for Assistive Technology Training in Newfoundland and Labrador's Rural Schools
Maich, Kimberly; van Rhijn, Tricia; Woods, Heather; Brochu, Kimberly
Canadian Journal of Learning and Technology, v43 n2 Fall 2017
This study examined the perceptions of teachers in rural Newfoundland (NL) about their current ability to support the use of assistive technology (AT) in their classrooms, and identified possible training needs that could be accomplished remotely. Thirty-two educators from rural areas of NL completed an online survey with a mix of closed- and open-ended questions. Five dimensions were explored for this needs assessment including: current beliefs, skills, use, comfort level, and perceptions of AT; identification of specific service needs; learning preferences; available technology; and potential barriers. Results reveal that teachers had positive attitudes about the utility and use of AT in their classrooms, yet were not fully implementing AT with their student's due to a variety of perceived barriers. The study identified a clear need for AT teacher training. Based on the results and the research, literature recommendations are made for teacher training to address the need identified by this study.
Descriptors: Assistive Technology, Rural Schools, Teacher Attitudes, Educational Needs, Online Surveys, Needs Assessment, Beliefs, Teaching Skills, Usability, Self Efficacy, Preferences, Accessibility (for Disabled), Related Services (Special Education), Barriers, Elementary Secondary Education, Foreign Countries
Canadian Network for Innovation in Education. 260 Dalhousie Street Suite 204, Ottawa, ON K1N 7E4, Canada. Tel: 613-241-0018; Fax: 613-241-0019; e-mail: cnie-rcie@cnie-rcie.ca; Web site: http://www.cjlt.ca
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Canada
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A