Digital Technologies and Education: Ghanaian Youths' Perceptions and Experiences

• In Event: Youth, education, and digital tools: global perspectives on connection, migration, and learning

Proposal

In the contemporary digital age, technology has become an indispensable part of daily life, particularly for the younger generation. This study explores the experiences of Ghanaian youths with digital technologies and their impact on education. The research focuses on the types of digital devices and applications used, the roles and challenges associated with technology use, and the perceived prospects of digital technologies in education.

This study is grounded in the framework of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), which emphasizes the integration of technology into teaching in a way that enhances learning outcomes. TPACK provides a comprehensive understanding of how technology can be effectively utilized in educational settings, considering the interplay between technology, pedagogy, and content knowledge. Additionally, the study draws on the Digital Natives theory, which posits that today's youth, having grown up with digital technologies, have unique learning preferences and capabilities.

The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of the youths' experiences. A survey was administered to a sample of 500 students from Junior High Schools (JHS) and Senior High Schools (SHS) across different zones in Ghana, including the Savannah, Forest, and Coastal regions. The survey included questions on the types of digital devices and applications used, the roles and challenges of technology in education, and the perceived future prospects of digital technologies. In addition to the survey, focus group discussions were conducted with selected students to gain deeper insights into their experiences and perceptions. The qualitative data from these discussions were analyzed thematically to identify common themes and patterns.

Ghanaian youths, both at the JHS and SHS levels, are extensively engaged with various digital tools such as smartphones, wearables, computers, and tablets. The study reveals that 94% of JHS and 93% of SHS students use smartphones, making them the most frequently used devices. These technologies are primarily used for accessing information, completing assignments, and staying updated with current knowledge. The software applications commonly used include educational platforms, social media, and multimedia tools, which facilitate diverse learning formats such as video and audio.

The youths perceive digital technologies positively, highlighting their roles in enhancing access to information, easing understanding, and aiding skill acquisition. For instance, students use the internet to download educational content from platforms like YouTube and Google, which helps them grasp complex subjects like mathematics. Additionally, digital technologies enable students to acquire practical skills in areas such as programming, communication, and marketing.

Notwithstanding the benefits, the study identifies several challenges faced by youths in using digital technologies. These include distractions, health issues, connectivity problems, financial constraints, limited access and competencies, and cyber abuse. The challenges vary across different zones, with financial and access issues being common across all regions, while health problems and cyber abuse are more prevalent in the forest and coastal zones. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for teachers to be better equipped with digital skills to effectively integrate technology into the classroom.

The research also delves into the prospects of digital technologies in education, with a significant majority of students (92%) believing that technology enhances future job prospects. However, there is a recognition of the need for continuous retraining to keep up with emerging digital technologies. The study recommends several measures to advance the use of digital technologies in education, including allowing technological devices on school campuses, discouraging the replacement of printed materials with artificial intelligence, guiding the use of digital technology in schools, and providing government subsidies for digital devices.

In conclusion, while Ghanaian youths are actively engaging with digital technologies and recognizing their benefits in education, there are significant challenges that need to be addressed. The study underscores the importance of creating an enabling environment through policy support and infrastructure development to maximize the potential of digital technologies in education. By addressing these challenges and leveraging the opportunities, digital technologies can play a pivotal role in transforming education and preparing youths for future job markets.

Based on the findings, the study recommends several key actions to enhance digital education. Firstly, comprehensive digital literacy training programs for teachers should be implemented to improve their engagement with online communities. Secondly, investing in better internet connectivity and access to digital devices, especially in remote and underserved areas, is crucial. Establishing support systems to provide ongoing assistance and resources for online communities will ensure their sustainability. Additionally, developing policies to integrate online communities into the national teacher professional development framework will encourage widespread adoption. Finally, fostering partnerships between educational institutions, technology providers, and policymakers will create a robust and supportive ecosystem for online communities. These measures collectively aim to create a more effective and inclusive digital education environment.

Authors

• Clara Araba Mills, University of Cape Coast

• Might Kojo Abreh, UNIVERSITY OF CAPE COAST

• Juliana Serebour Quaicoe, MKA EDUCATION SERVICES LTD

• Judith Ataa Nsiah, Ghana Education Service

• Richard Nartey, University of Cape Coast, Ghana