On powerpointers, clickerers, and digital pros: Investigating the initiation of digital learning activities by teachers in higher education

This study investigated the initiation of digitally supported learning activities and personal and institutional factors associated with them in different higher education courses, based on the C♭-model. The C♭-model is a theoretical framework that systematizes contextual factors, which influence students‘ learning activities as the most important facilitator of students’ learning success. Using a self-assessment instrument with anchored scenarios in a sample of 1625 higher education teachers, we were able to identify three levels at which higher education teachers initiated digital learning activities: a low level (powerpointers), a moderate level (clickerers), and a high level (digital pros). The findings also support the relevance of the contextual factors specified in the C♭-model for initiating a high level of digital learning activities, namely digitalization policy and commitment of university administration, institutional equipment, technical and educational support, self-assessed basic digital skills, and self-assessed technology-related teaching skills. All of these factors explain a substantial amount of variance in the level of initiated digital learning activities. We conclude that a comprehensive approach rather than isolated measures might contribute to successful teaching and learning in higher education.