Teacher Readiness for Technology Integration in Language Classrooms: A Professional Development Perspective

Abstract

The rapid growth of digital technologies has changed the way language is taught in many ways, as it has opened up fresh prospects of engaging in interactive learning, being digitally collaborative and finding various linguistic resources. Nevertheless, the key to effective implementation of technology in language classes rests on the willingness of teachers, their digital skills, and accessible effective professional development practises. This research seeks to assess the willingness of the teachers towards integrating technology in teaching the language and gauge the role of professional development on the capability of the teachers to use digital tools in the teaching practise. The research design applied was a quantitative survey based-research and the study involved language teachers in educational institutions as a sample and data is gathered using a structured questionnaire that measures technological knowledge, pedagogical skills using technology and finally their participation in professional training programme. The data gathered through the research were statistically examined with the help of descriptive and inferential statistics and were allowed to identify the tendencies in the digital preparedness of teachers and their attitudes towards technology-enhanced instruction. The results indicate that although numerous teachers show the intermediate level of preparedness to introduce technology in the classroom, the professional development contributes to the growth of their confidence, technology proficiency, and innovation in instruction. Its findings indicate the significance of ongoing teacher training, the support of the institution, and the curriculum to facilitate the successful technology integration in the language education process, and this data can be of great use to educators, policymakers, and institutions of teacher training aiming to enhance digital pedagogy in the current language learning environment.