Resources and capability needs for teaching in dynamic technological environments: Evidence from schools in Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated the integration of digital technologies into teachers’ practice as most teaching moved online. However, an interrogation of the resource and capability needs for teaching in the dynamic technological environment remains missing. Therefore, the study sought to determine the resource and capability needs for teaching in a dynamic and technological online environment. The study was critical because learner context differs, thereby limiting the applicability of existing knowledge. In addition, existing knowledge remains inconclusive on the influence of various capabilities on teaching in dynamic technological environments. It was, therefore, crucial to provide empirical evidence from the Zimbabwean context. The study adopted a cross-sectional approach to data collection using a structured questionnaire. The population comprised teachers from selected schools in Harare. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the sample was conveniently chosen. A structural equation model was conducted using WarpPLS 7.0. The results show that technological capability (TechCap), technological experience (TechExp), and technological access (TechAcc) significantly influence teaching in technological environments (β = 0.41, p < .01; β = 0.31, p < .05 and β = 0.27, p < .01) respectively. Technological will (TechWill) was found not to significantly influence teaching (β = −0.05, p > .05). The study recommended the enhancement of teachers’ technological capability, experience and access. Further, the study made policy recommendations for pre-service and in-service training, capacity and infrastructure development programmes, and technology-integrated teaching and learning framework design.