Virtual Mentoring in Education: Describing Digital Literacy, Technology Self-Efficacy, and Attitude Toward Technology of In-Service Educators

• In Event: Comparative Studies of Professional Development

Abstract

Digital literacy, technology self-efficacy, and attitude toward technology play an impactful role in the life of in-service agriculture teachers. This study examined the effects of participation in a virtual mentoring program on the digital literacy, technology self-efficacy, and attitude toward technology of in-service agriculture teachers. It was found that in-service agriculture teachers who had participated in a virtual mentoring program exhibited higher overall digital literacy and technology self-efficacy levels than those in-service agriculture teachers who had not participated in a virtual mentoring program. Pragmatic implications include a defined opportunity for agricultural education leaders to develop appropriate and beneficial tools and materials to assist in-service agriculture teachers in developing digital literacy skills, technology self-efficacy skills, and a positive attitude toward technology.

Authors

• Tiffany Morey

• Daniel Foster, The Pennsylvania State University