Technology Utilization in Learning: A Phenomenological Study of the Pre-Service Teachers in Northern Philippines

Abstract

This qualitative research delved into the experiences of the pre-service teachers in using technology in their studies. The phenomenological approach, with interview as the primary data gathering method, was used to elicit their experiences on technology utilization while studying in a higher education institution in the Northern Philippines. The technological devices mostly used by the students are smartphones and laptops. They also avail themselves of the mobile tablets and computer units offered by the University to students. Additionally, the most common digital resources accessed by the students are Google and YouTube among other platforms such as social media. They find these resources convenient and useful in their studies because they are able to access updated information, watch educational videos and actively engage. However, poor internet connection and power interruptions are commonly experienced by the participants, and these affect their use of technology. Financial limitation was also mentioned by the participants as a restricting factor. The University offers free internet access to students, but they still need to spend for their loads in order to access digital resources at home. Despite these challenges, the students are maximizing the use of technology with whatever available resources they have.