The relationship between teachers´ attitudes, self-perceived competencies and usage of ICT

Abstract

The aim of the study is to investigate how teachers´ self-perceived competencies and their attitudes toward ICT in the classroom are related to the use of ICT. The methodology that is used for answering the research question is of a quantitative character in form of questionnaires. The research question for this study is: How are teachers´ self-perceived competencies and attitudes toward ICT in the classroom related to the use of ICT? The results show that the investigated teachers feel capable of using ICT in different aspects, the teachers have positive attitudes toward ICT and use ICT often in their classroom. Teachers who perceived themselves as being more competent in using ICT had more positive attitudes toward benefits of ICT, and positive attitudes were found to be related to more frequent usage of ICT in the classroom. There are new demands on what students in Swedish schools should learn and what abilities students should be given the opportunities to develop. Because of this there are also new demands on the teachers in school. We live in a complex society were the information flow is huge and it is therefore of importance that teachers feel like they are in control and that they see benefits of using ICT in the classroom, both for themselves, their students and for the development of our society.