Using digital technologies to support active and self-directed learning

Digital technologies hold considerable promise for fostering both active and self-directed learning (SDL). However, understanding of how and to what extent educators employ them in higher education to meet this dual objective is still in its nascent stages. This study explored techno-pedagogical competencies among college educators for facilitating active and SDL. Techno-pedagogical competencies refer to the integration of technological skills with pedagogical knowledge that educators require to effectively facilitate learning with digital technologies. We also examined the educator’s perceptions of SDL involving the use of digital technologies. The research population comprised 156 educators from diverse academic disciplines across five Israeli teaching colleges. Utilizing a questionnaire, tailored for this study, and semi-structured interviews, the research reveals that the educators deployed digital technologies primarily to enhance their instructional methods and foster active learning and collaboration among students. Notably, only a limited number of the educators actively encouraged SDL by involving students in the selection and adaptation of digital tools. The interview findings revealed that their pedagogical perspectives on SDL often lacked depth and that they did not provide their students with choices. However, participants underscored the pivotal role of group and collaborative learning within digital contexts as a mechanism to foster SDL, unveiling an interesting perspective. To foster active and SDL it is vital to enhance technological skills while simultaneously fostering a pedagogical understanding of the significance of direct learners’ involvement in the use and selection of digital tools adapted to their educational needs. This dual approach is essential for the effective implementation of active and SDL methodologies within digital teaching environments.