Exploring demographic influences on digital technology integration in Chinese primary mathematics education
Mao Li 1 * , Colleen Vale 1 , Hazel Tan 1 , Jo Blannin 1
More Detail
1 School of Curriculum, Teaching and Inclusion, Faculty of Education, Monash University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA* Corresponding Author

Abstract

In the evolving landscape of primary mathematics education, this study investigates the impact of gender, age, teaching experience, educational background, and mathematics-specific education on the factors of integrating digital technology during the post-pandemic era in primary schools. Data from 554 primary mathematics teachers in China, were analyzed using Technological Pedagogical Readiness scale across eleven constructs with Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests for statistical examination. Results indicate a significant difference in the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) construct based on gender, with female teachers exhibiting stronger integration. Contrary to findings from other studies, other constructs showed no substantial gender differences, suggesting an equalizing effect potentially propelled by widespread digital adaptation during the pandemic. Age and teaching experience did not present significant variations in technology integration, revealing a shift from previously understood dynamics where younger, less experienced educators were considered more technologically-inclined. Educational levels, including junior college, bachelor’s degree, and master’s degree, along with a mathematics-specific background, did not significantly influence digital integration, indicating a standardization of technological engagement regardless of academic specialization or mathematics background. The study’s insights emphasize the necessity for inclusive professional development programs that consider these nuances and support sustained technology use in education beyond the pandemic.

License

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Article Type: Research Article

INT ELECT J MATH ED, Volume 20, Issue 2, May 2025, Article No: em0810

https://doi.org/10.29333/iejme/15814

Publication date: 01 Apr 2025

Online publication date: 02 Jan 2025

Article Views: 93

Article Downloads: 55

Open Access References How to cite this article