Bringing digital resource decision-making up to date: preparing the inaugural class of digitalised preservice teachers for informed evaluation of digital resources

Abstract

ABSTRACT The virtualised schools and universities of the Covid-19 pandemic became rely heavily on educational digital resources (EDRs), so that it has made the selection and use of high-quality EDRs even more critical for quality education. This qualitative case study aims to examine decision-making criteria used by preservice teachers (PTs) in selecting and evaluating EDRs. Twenty senior PTs participated in the study, and each evaluated four EDRs using guided prompts. Open coding and text analysis on 77 EDR evaluations were conducted. Results indicate that 41 EDRs were selected for the evaluation, and PTs’ prior experience in the field, both as a teacher or an observer, influenced their selection process. Features of EDRs considered in decision-making process included types of EDRs, pedagogical and maths skill purpose, ready-made or adaptable, interactive or one-way, and cost. Also, five decision-making criteria used by PTs in EDR selection and use were the primary benefit holder, function of EDRs, opportunity for improving mathematical skill, affordances, and constraints. Findings urged framing a new generations’ perspective on evaluating EDRs. The ways to support PTs for better informed selection and implementation of EDRs were discussed.