Research Article

Is COVID-19 the Gateway for Digital Learning in Mathematics Education?

Eddie M. Mulenga 1 * , José M. Marbán 2
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1 PhD Candidate, School of Doctoral Studies, University of Valladolid, Spain2 Department of Experimental, Social and Mathematical Sciences Teaching, University of Valladolid, Spain* Corresponding Author
Contemporary Educational Technology, 12(2), October 2020, ep269, https://doi.org/10.30935/cedtech/7949
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ABSTRACT

Digital learning has reshaped education in many ways. The purpose of this study is to respond to the question of whether COVID-19 is the gateway for digital-learning in mathematics education. To this end, this study explores some uptakes of social media platforms by prospective secondary school teachers. Data was collected from 102 prospective mathematics teachers from the Copperbelt University (CBU). Cluster analysis approach was used. Results revealed that participants’ scores for digital learning in mathematics in cluster 2 were higher than those in both cluster 1 and 3. This is a clear indication that prospective teachers in clusters with low scores are more likely to exhibit low skill levels in the use of mobile technology and the adoption of social media in relation to mathematics pedagogy during the COVID-19 crisis. Results show different patterns. However, overall results show that digital learning could be a positive response to COVID-19 closure period.
Keywords: COVID-19, digital learning, social media, students, mathematics education, Zambia

CITATION (APA)

Mulenga, E. M., & Marbán, J. M. (2020). Is COVID-19 the Gateway for Digital Learning in Mathematics Education?. Contemporary Educational Technology, 12(2), ep269. https://doi.org/10.30935/cedtech/7949

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