EXAMINING THE ROLE OF TEACHERS' IMT AND AI SKILLS ON EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES IN DISTANCE LEARNING: AN ANALYSIS OF DIGITAL COMPETENCIES, CHALLENGES, AND SUPPORT NEEDS IN REMOTE TEACHING

Education

This study examines the impact of teachers’ Information, Media, and Technology (IMT) skills, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), on teaching and learning outcomes in distance education. The transition to online teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of digital competencies, yet many educators face challenges in adapting to new technologies. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research surveyed 300 teachers in Mumbai to assess their confidence, preparedness, and the challenges encountered in using IMT and AI tools. Quantitative data was analyzed through descriptive statistics, while qualitative insights were obtained through thematic analysis, providing a comprehensive view of teachers' experiences. Findings reveal a divide in confidence and readiness, with some educators feeling well-equipped while others report significant obstacles, such as technical issues and lack of support. This study highlights the need for targeted training and support programs to enhance teachers' digital skills, ensuring effective integration of IMT and AI in virtual classrooms. By identifying areas of improvement, this research offers valuable insights for educational institutions seeking to strengthen teacher competencies in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.