ERIC Number: EJ1433444
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Jul
Pages: 26
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1360-2357
EISSN: EISSN-1573-7608
Factors Influencing the Acceptance of Assistive Technology by Teacher Candidates in the Context of Inclusive Education and Special Needs Students
Ferhan Sahin; Aydin Kizilaslan; Önder Simsek
Education and Information Technologies, v29 n10 p12263-12288 2024
While assistive technologies are crucial for students with special needs, the number of studies scrutinizing instructors' acceptance of assistive technologies within the scope of inclusive education remains quite limited. Furthermore, there is almost no comprehensive study in the existing body of literature focusing on the acceptance of assistive technology in inclusive education among teacher candidates. The aim of this study is, therefore, to investigate the factors influencing the intention to use assistive technologies among teacher candidates who have undergone training in special and inclusive education, through an extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The data of the study were collected online from 311 teacher candidates studying in 6 different programs of a state university. For the analysis, factor analysis, structural equation modeling (partial least squares) and bootstrapping analysis is used. The findings revealed that the constructs with the greatest impact on the intention to use assistive technologies were social influence, enjoyment and innovativeness, respectively. The most robust relationship within the model was identified between self-efficacy and ease of use. The results provide a theoretical foundation regarding the role of both individual and institutional factors influencing teacher candidates' intentions to use assistive technology. Furthermore, a model that can be utilized for the implementation of assistive technologies in inclusive education was validated. Accordingly, theoretical and practical implications are discussed, and recommendations for future studies are highlighted.
Descriptors: Assistive Technology, Inclusion, Teacher Attitudes, Special Needs Students, Students with Disabilities, Preservice Teachers, Positive Attitudes, Computer Attitudes, Social Influences, Instructional Innovation, Usability, Self Efficacy
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2123/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A