The Technological Challenge Facing Higher Education Professors: Perceptions of ICT Tools for Developing 21st Century Skills

Marta Liesa-Orús, Cecilia Latorre-Cosculluela, Sandra Vázquez-Toledo and Verónica Sierra-Sánchez
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Marta Liesa-Orús: Faculty of Human Sciences and Education, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
Cecilia Latorre-Cosculluela: Faculty of Human Sciences and Education, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
Sandra Vázquez-Toledo: Faculty of Human Sciences and Education, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
Verónica Sierra-Sánchez: Faculty of Human Sciences and Education, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain

Sustainability, 2020, vol. 12, issue 13, 1-14

Abstract: To consider that some quality teaching-learning processes in the Higher Education is practically unthinkable without the use of technology, especially because of its impact in developing the necessary skills and abilities for the 21st century. (1) Background: One of the initial steps to successfully approach this challenge is to analyze how university professors consider that ICTs can contribute to developing skills and abilities in their students. In this regard, their perceptions are one of the factors that will limit the use they make of these tools. (2) Method: For this reason, a quantitative research has been designed in which 345 university professors have participated for different branches of knowledge of one Spanish university. (3) Results: Among the most relevant results, we can highlight that the professors recognize the potentials of the ICTs and consider they have a positive effect on learning and development of 21st century skills in their students. These benefits are seen in different fields like communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, among others. Likewise, the importance of the technology culture teaching role is outstanding. (4) Conclusions: Finally, the need for integration of ICTs in a pedagogical model in which professor training in digital skills acquires relevance is shown.

Keywords: Higher Education; ICT; 21st century skills; technology; university professors (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (12)

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