The Effect of Digital Material Preparation Training on Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge Self-Confidence of Pre-service Social Studies Teachers

Abstract

This study examines whether digital material preparation training provided to pre-service teachers’ using instructional technologies affects their levels of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) Self-Confidence. The research is conducted using the Embedded Design, one of the Mixed Methods Research Designs. Study group consists of 24 pre-service social studies teachers. Data is collected using TPACK Self-Confidence Scale (TPACK-SCS) and Semi-Structured Questionnaire. Pre-service teachers are trained on different Web 2.0 tools throughout the implementation phase and thereafter were asked to prepare different digital materials specific to social studies. Quantitative data collected were analyzed using descriptive and predictive statistics. Content analysis of qualitative data was performed using MaxQda 2020 qualitative data analysis software. Research findings revealed a statistically significant difference between pre-test and post-test scores of pre-service teachers’ TPACK self-confidence levels. Pre-service teachers’ fear of failure, presumed failure and reluctance for being a part of the process turned into a perception of success and self-efficacy following the training and their learned helplessness disappeared. Teachers should be supported with a practice-based training that will allow to integrate technological, pedagogical and content knowledge for developing TPACK, as a comprehensive answer to 21st century teaching competencies.