Scenario
You are part of a research team tasked with investigating the impact of technology-enhanced teaching
on learner engagement in South African secondary schools. The Department of Basic Education has
asked your team to design and conduct a study that will generate actionable recommendations for
improving teaching practice using digital tools.
The Department is particularly interested in:
• How to conceptualise the study’s literature review to ensure it addresses current debates in education.
• Which research paradigms and approaches are most suitable.
• How action research could be integrated to address challenges found during the study.
Introduction
The integration of technology into education has emerged as a pivotal aspect of modern teaching and
learning. In the context of South African secondary schools, where diverse challenges such as
limited resources and unequal access to educational tools persist, technology-enhanced teaching
holds the potential to revolutionize learner engagement and academic outcomes. This study seeks to
explore the impact of technology-enhanced teaching on learner engagement in South African
secondary schools, focusing on the ways in which digital tools influence students' participation,
motivation, and overall learning experience.
The Department of Basic Education has identified the need for actionable insights that can guide
educators and policymakers in maximizing the benefits of digital technologies within the classroom.
As such, the study aims to provide empirical data on the effectiveness of various digital tools in
fostering engagement and improving teaching practices. By drawing on a mixed-methods approach,
combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods, this study will provide a
comprehensive analysis of how technology can be harnessed to enhance educational practices.
Additionally, the study will delve into the specific challenges faced by educators and learners in the
South African context, such as infrastructure limitations, digital literacy, and varying levels of access
to technological resources. The outcomes of this research are expected to contribute valuable
recommendations for educators, schools, and policymakers seeking to implement or improve
technology-enhanced teaching strategies in secondary schools.