Science Teachers’ Adoption of Virtual Laboratories in Rural South African Schools: Challenges and Opportunities

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Saturday 7:45 am
  In Poster Session: Orienting to Affect, Culture, and Language in Science Teaching and Learning

Abstract

We present findings from a mixed methods study that involved 186 school teachers from South Africa. Guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, we explored teachers’ experiences with VL adoption in rural schools. The findings challenge traditional notions of primary sources of teacher motivation, emphasizing learners’ enthusiasm as a key factor. Despite teachers expressing uncertainty about facilitating conditions, the research indicates improved technology access, challenging prior perceptions of limited availability in rural schools. However, persistent issues, such as inadequate guidance and support, necessitate comprehensive technical and administrative assistance for successful VL integration. Notwithstanding the current low VL usage, teachers in rural schools expressed a willingness to adopt it under conducive conditions, suggesting potential for increased adoption.

Authors

• BRIAN SHAMBARE, University of the Free State

• Thuthukile Jita, University of the Free State