Factors Influencing Preservice EFL Teachers’ Technology Integration Into Language Teaching

Abstract

In the 21st century, preservice EFL teachers must be able to integrate technology into language education. However, very little research has been carried out on the specific factors that influence preservice teachers to integrate appropriate technology into their language teaching. This study aimed to explore exactly what influences preservice EFL teachers to choose the appropriate technology to incorporate into their lessons through a two-cycle design-based research study. The findings suggest that preservice EFL instructors' comprehension of language teaching methods and approaches has the greatest influence on technological integration in their classrooms. In addition, the instructor’s direct guidance also facilitates their appropriate technology integration into language teaching. As a result, teacher education programs are designed to provide preservice EFL instructors with language teaching methods and approaches before assisting them in learning how to incorporate appropriate technology into specific language teaching methods or approaches. Finally, the researchers suggest that instructors also provide direct advice to preservice EFL teachers as they explore the incorporation of technology into language education.