Ctrl + Class: A Phenomenological Unfurling of the Lived Digital Leap of the 21st Century Teachers

Authors

  • Princes Joy G. Arambala Department of Education image/svg+xml
  • J. P. Versinie M. Salmorin Holy Cross of Davao College

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11594/ijmaber.07.05.02

Keywords:

Catholic education, Faculty experience, Phenomenology approach, Purposive sampling, Technology-enhanced learning, Thematic analysis

Abstract

This study is relevant to the academic community as it provides insights into the lived experiences of faculty members navigating technology-enhanced learning (TEL) in a private Catholic institution. It presents primary data gathered through in-depth interviews with four faculty participants from Holy Cross of Davao College, Region XI, Philippines. Understanding these experiences can help educators and institutions develop more effective strategies for integrating digital tools in faith-based educational settings. This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach to explore how teachers perceive, adopt, and utilize technology in their classrooms. Using purposive sampling, the researchers chosen participants who actively implemented TEL. Thematic analysis revealed that faculty members experienced both growth and challenges in their digital journey. They expressed fulfillment when students engaged more deeply through tools like Padlet and Edpuzzle, but also shared frustrations due to infrastructure limitations and evolving digital platforms. Participants described coping mechanisms such as self-learning, peer mentoring, and strategic use of tools like Google Classroom and Canva. Their insights emphasized the importance of adaptability, reflective practice, and a student-centered mindset. The study recommends institutional support for professional development, improved infrastructure, and collaborative efforts to foster inclusive and effective digital learning environments.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

References

Amirudin, A., Rakhmawati, D., & Fadli, M. (2023). Spirituality and digital tension in Islamic education: A South Sumatra case study. Journal of Comparative Religion and Pedagogy, 8(1), 54–70.Akçayır, M., & Akçayır, G. (2022). The effects of digital tools on teachers' efficiency in education. Education and Information Technologies, 27(5), 6523-6539.

Chen, L., Wang, Y., & Zhou, J. (2024). Interactive learning environments: The role of digital tools in student engagement. Journal of Educational Technology Research and Development, 72(1), 45–62. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-023-10017-x

Creswell, J.W. (2013) Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. 4th Edition, SAGE Publications, Inc., London.

Davis, F. D. (1986). A technology acceptance model for empirically testing new end-user information systems: Theory and results (Publication No. 8609394) [Doctoral dissertation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology]. ProQuest Dissertations Publishing.

Graham, C. R., Woodfield, W., & Harrison, J. B. (2021). Blended learning environments: A literature review and research agenda. Educational Technology Research and Development, 69(1), 1-27.

Gikas, J., & Grant, M. M. (2013). Mobile computing devices in higher education: Student perspectives on learning with cellphones, smartphones, & social media. The Internet and Higher Education, 19, 18–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iheduc.2013.06.002

Hai, P. T. (2024). Teacher readiness and institutional alignment in Vietnam’s digital education

reform. Asian Education Studies Journal, 10(2), 77–89.

Hodges, C., Moore, S., Lockee, B., Trust, T., & Bond, A. (2020). The difference between emergency remote teaching and online learning. Educause Review, 3(25), 1-13.

Koehler, M. J., Mishra, P., & Cain, W. (2021). What is technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK)?. Journal of Research on Technology in Education, 53(1), 1-21.

Kozlova, N., & Orel, O. (2021). Digital competence of teachers in the context of distance learning.

Journal of Learning and Teaching in Digital Age, 6(1), 1-10.

Lai, C., & Li, M. (2023). Exploring the factors influencing teachers' consistent use of learning management systems. British Journal of Educational Technology, 54(2), 405-420.

Lim, S., & Thian, R. (2020). Examining the role of professional learning communities in fostering technology integration among teachers. Journal of Educational Technology Systems, 48(4), 487-507.

Liu, S., Han, M., & Hou, X. (2023). Teachers’ intentions to integrate technology in education: A

systematic review. Computers & Education, 192, 104652.

Navarro, J., Flores, J., & Ramos, R. (2023). Assistive technology for inclusive education: A systematic review. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 18(4), 450-460.

Pandita, R., & Kiran, K. (2023). Faculty perspectives on digital pedagogy transformation in higher education: A qualitative analysis. International Journal of Educational Management, 37(3), 512–530. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEM-10-2022-0456

Roa, R. A., Mendoza, M. J., & Alvarado, F. C. (2023). Barriers to e-learning institutionalization in Catholic universities in Mindanao: A policy review. Philippine Journal of Higher Education Policy, 15(2), 29–46.

Tan, M., Evangelista, J., & Cruz, A. (2023). Teacher agency in technology integration: A study on peer mentoring and self-directed learning. Philippine Journal of Educational Innovation, 18(1), 67–80.

Tuholukova, O., & Vovk, O. (2023). Digital infrastructure challenges for online learning in developing countries. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 20(1), 1-15.

Downloads

Published

23-05-2026

Data Availability Statement

The data supporting the findings of this study are available from the authors upon reasonable request. Due to the qualitative nature of the research and confidentiality agreements with participants, full transcripts and raw data are not publicly accessible. Interested readers may contact the corresponding author for further information.

How to Cite

Arambala, P. J. G., & Salmorin, J. P. V. M. (2026). Ctrl + Class: A Phenomenological Unfurling of the Lived Digital Leap of the 21st Century Teachers. International Journal of Multidisciplinary: Applied Business and Education Research, 7(5), 1854-1866. https://doi.org/10.11594/ijmaber.07.05.02