The Impact of Digital Technology on Learning and Teaching: A Case Study of Schools in Durrës, Albania

Abstract

The incorporation of digital technology in education has become more widespread, offering the potential to transform conventional teaching methods and improve student learning experiences. This study investigates the influence of digital technology on the process of learning and teaching in Albanian schools. This study used a mixed-methods approach to examine the benefits, difficulties, and overall efficacy of digital tools in educational environments. This paper provides a comprehensive literature analysis to examine the global trends and issues related to digital technology in education, with a specific focus on developing nations. It emphasizes the distinct socio-economic and infrastructural difficulties encountered by Albania, a developing country endeavoring to improve its educational system.  Survey responses from a diverse selection of 10 educational institutions in Durrës, Albania provided numerical data. Quantitative data collection involved conducting questionnaires with students of different ages, which allowed for a comprehensive understanding of their experiences and perspectives. The results demonstrate that the use of digital technology greatly improves student engagement and academic achievement. Schools that integrated digital technology into their curriculum achieved higher exam scores than schools that did not. Nevertheless, the research also highlights notable obstacles such as limited infrastructure, unstable internet access, and inadequate teacher preparation that impede the efficient utilization of digital resources. It is necessary for teachers a significant inclination for additional training and assistance, while students demonstrated a preference for digital learning tools over conventional techniques, citing heightened enthusiasm and involvement. This study provides policy proposals to effectively solve the highlighted difficulties and improve the incorporation of digital technology in Albanian schools. These include increased financial resources for improving infrastructure, comprehensive programs for educating teachers, and the establishment of a supportive framework to maintain digital integration endeavors. In summary, this study offers a comprehensive analysis of the impact of digital technology on educational achievements in Albania, making a significant contribution to the wider discussion on digital education in developing nations. The results emphasize the revolutionary capacity of digital tools in education while emphasizing the critical necessity of resolving structural obstacles in order to fully achieve this promise.

Received: 14 July 2024 / Accepted: 2 October 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024