Self-perceived Levels of Technological Appropriation by University Feachers: A Post-pandemic Analysis in Higher Education in Paraguay

The objective of this descriptive cross-sectional study was to analyze the self-perception university teachers on the levels of technological appropriation and use after the COVID-19 pandemic. An online questionnaire was administered to 156 faculty members of the National University of Asuncion in Paraguay during the last two months of 2022, where three levels technological appropriation were evaluated: Knowledge, Use and Transformation and Innovation. The data were analyzed using summary statistics, chi-square tests, multivariate permutation tests and correlations. The results showed that teachers recognize the benefits technology in teaching, although they face difficulties in the use of some specific tools. It found that the planning and design of digital activities and resources are related to improvements academic performance. In general, no significant differences were found between the levels technological appropriation according to gender, experience or discipline taught. The majority of faculty members perceived themselves at the Advanced and Expert levels in computer technology competencies, and agreed that the pandemic strengthened their level of ICT appropriation. The study concludes that university faculty in Paraguay present solid levels technological appropriation, which are reflected in the recognition, use and transformation the teaching process.