Technology-based Experiences of Young People: Opportunities for Filipino Educators

Abstract

The paper identifies and describes the use of technology in supporting the daily activities of individuals, 12 years and older, in Panay Island, Philippines. This study collected data using voluntary completion of a paper-based survey on technology use. Survey items asked respondents to identify how often technology was used to complete specific personal, professional, social or academic tasks or activities. The survey also collected demographic information on gender and location (rural/urban). Data analysis used descriptive and nonparametric statistics. Results demonstrate commonalities and differences in handling and accessing technology across gender and location of participants. The paper presents the top tasks performed “all the time” as well as “none at all” by the respondents. The results of this study might have implications to 1) designing education programs that integrate technology, 2) developing continuing professional development of educators on technology knowledge and skills especially those involved with the youth, and 3) creating a baseline of expectations among the population studied about integrating technology to specific tasks or activities. Generalization of the results might be limited only to the identified regional contexts or those with similar characteristics.