DIGITAL LEARNING IN TEACHER EDUCATION: IMPLICATIONS FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING IN THE 21ST CENTURY

This paper explores the integration of digital learning in teacher education programme to enhance teaching and learning. In the 21st century, effective teaching is not about understanding basic knowledge and facts, but teachers are required to integrate technology to prepare learners for the world of work. Teacher's innovative endeavors when preparing learners for the 21st century create conducive spaces where learners can collaborate with peers using digital platforms and tools. This in turn promotes learner-centred classrooms as learners engage in classrooms as teachers transform the pedagogies. This paper adopted TPACK model that puts emphasis on content knowledge, pedagogical knowledge and technological knowledge during teaching and learning. The model emphasizes that teachers should know the content, the appropriate methods to use and the knowledge of technological tools to use when teaching. This paper adopted interpretive qualitative research where Further Education and Training (FET) phase student teachers from the Faculty of Education were participants of the study. Through convenient sampling, data collected from 30 student teachers were through focus group interviews and reflective journals. The results showed that student teachers recognize the importance of digital learning in teacher education programmes to enhance teaching and learning for the 21st century. In addition, the results show that digital learning enhances peer collaborations without geographical proximity. From the results, it is evident that unavailability of resources (devices and connectivity) jeopardizes digital learning. This paper recommends that the university provides students with devices and strengthens connectivity to ensure effectiveness of digital learning.