Assessing Technology Integration in Early Childhood Education: Scale Development and Validation of the TPACK-ECE Scale

• In Event: Expanding Horizons in Educational Assessment and Validation

Abstract

Given the rapid advancement of technology in educational contexts and the imperative to develop a measure that reflects contemporary demands and addresses the unique requirements of early childhood education, this study developed and validated a new scale (TPACK-ECE) specifically for early childhood educators. Teachers (N=100) completed assessments, and exploratory factor analysis revealed a 56-item, seven-factor structure. Confirmatory factor analysis showed acceptable model fit, as indicated by the metrics for the TPACK factor (RMSEA=.067; GFI =.931; AGFI=.955; TLI=.907). The scale demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (r=.956) and strong internal consistency, with the most comprehensive factor; TPACK, having α=.938. Significant correlations with an another TPACK scale (r=.579; r=.911) indicate high convergent validity. Validation of TPACK-ECE advances research on technology’s impact in early education.

Authors

• Tugce Karaduman, Measurement, Selection & Placement Center

• Berrin Akman, Hacettepe University