Use of digital platforms and technologies by teachers and students

Abstract

The study analyzed the frequency and purpose of use of nine digital platforms and technologies (DPTs) by teachers and students, before and during the quarantine period due to COVID-19 and investigated its influence on these characteristics of use and the main problems and difficulties encountered by teachers and students during the pandemic for their school activities. Data was collected by applying questionnaires, answered by 105 students and 43 teachers from five schools in Portugal. The results revealed that teachers used DPTs significantly more frequently than students. During the quarantine, teachers and students reported more frequent use of DPTs, but with the same purposes as in the pre-pandemic context. Teachers claimed to use them more frequently for communication with students and for monitoring their work and school assignments. The students used them more often for submitting assignments. The main difficulties encountered by teachers were insufficient and obsolescent computer equipment and internet access. Students identified internet access as the biggest problem. During quarantine, teachers reported difficulties more related to social, pedagogical, and technical aspects, while students presented problems related to personal and technical factors. The study found that teachers use DPTs more frequently than students in their school routines, but also encounter more difficulties in using them.