Factors Affecting the Use of ICT by Teachers at Nan Yang Technician College, China

Abstract

Background and Aims: Nowadays, the application of information and communication technology in education is becoming increasingly widespread, which poses new requirements for the ICT application ability of teachers. The aim of this study is to explore: (1) The ICT ability level of teachers at Nan Yang Technician College; and (2) Factors affecting the ICT ability of teachers at Nan Yang Technician College. Methodology: The data was collected from 185 Chinese teachers from a technician school engaged by using the questionnaires and analyzed by Mean, standard deviation, and one-way ANOVA. Results: Research has found that: (1) The overall ICT application ability of teachers at Nan Yang Technician College is at a good level (M=3.56). From the five dimensions, only the evaluation and diagnosis dimensions are at a poor level (M=2.68; SD=0.92). The Technician literacy dimension (M=3.86; SD=0.65) and the learning and development dimension scored the highest (M=3.87; SD=0.62), both reaching a good level. The dimensions of planning and preparation (M=3.19; SD=0.64) and organization and management (M=3.35; SD=0.98) are at a moderate level. (2) There are significant differences in ICT application abilities among teachers of different age groups. The overall level of young vocational school teachers is higher than that of older teachers, especially in terms of planning and preparation, as well as organization and management. There is no significant difference in ICT application ability among teachers of different genders, educational levels, and teaching majors. Conclusion: The overall score of ICT application ability of teachers at Nanyang Technician College is at a good level, but it is relatively low compared to teachers from similar schools. The evaluation and diagnosis dimensions are at a poor level. In terms of influencing factors, age has a significant impact on the teachers of Nanyang Technician College. The ICT application ability score of older teachers is significantly lower than that of younger teachers. The ICT application ability of older teachers needs to be paid attention to. Other factors such as gender, education level, and the courses taught have no significant impact on the ICT application ability of teachers. Based on the analysis of research results, this study suggests that unique ICT enhancement strategies should be developed for different age groups of teachers. The development of learning activities should be based on the analysis of the teacher's situation, such as strengthening the evaluation and diagnostic abilities of teachers.