Digital
learning technology integration is rapidly transforming education worldwide,
creating opportunities for personalized, interactive, and student-centered
learning. The proliferation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
tools, online platforms, and multimedia resources has shifted the traditional
classroom model to a blended and digitally-enhanced learning environment.
Integration of digital technologies enables teachers to employ interactive
pedagogical strategies, enhances student engagement, fosters creativity, and
improves learning outcomes.
In
India, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the importance of
ICT in education, highlighting the role of technology in bridging the digital
divide, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Despite policy support,
rural schools face numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure,
limited teacher training, and unequal access to digital devices. This research
investigates the integration of digital learning technologies in upper primary
schools (Classes VI–VIII) in Palam Taluka, District Parbhani, Maharashtra. The
study examines the availability of digital resources, teachers’ pedagogical
practices, students’ attitudes, and infrastructural constraints.
A
descriptive survey research design was adopted, employing stratified random
sampling to select 20 schools, including government, aided, and private
institutions. Data collection was carried out using structured questionnaires
for teachers and students, interviews with headmasters, and classroom
observations. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency distributions,
percentages, and comparative tables, while qualitative data were subjected to
thematic analysis.
The
findings indicate that while digital learning positively impacts student
motivation, participation, and academic performance, challenges such as limited
internet connectivity, insufficient ICT training, and funding constraints
impede effective integration. The study recommends targeted interventions,
including continuous professional development for teachers, investment in ICT
infrastructure, provision of affordable devices for students, and community
engagement to ensure sustainable digital learning.
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