Use of Digital Technologies in Online Learning During the Pandemic: Views of Educators and Pre-Service Science Teachers

This study aims to examine the views of educators and pre-service science teachers on the use of digital technologies in online learning environments during the pandemic. To this end, a case study design and a qualitative research approach were employed. The study included 9 educators and 32 pre-service science teachers enrolled in mathematics and science education programs at Turkish higher education institutions. Data were collected through a Google Form with open-ended questions. The data were analyzed using both descriptive and content analysis methods. The results indicate that educators generally viewed the teaching process during the pandemic positively, while pre-service science teachers tended to view it negatively. WhatsApp and mobile phone were primarily used to access lessons, although educators favored Web 2.0 tools for teaching. The use of social networks by both educators and pre-service science teachers was found to positively impact academic achievement. Both groups also reported challenges, including slow internet connections and frequent disconnections while using digital technologies.