The Influences of Educational Technology on Comprehension among Elementary School Students during the Covid-19 Pandemic Period in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The current study addressed concerns surrounding the impact of educational technology on students’ comprehension during the COVID-19 pandemic. While researchers have shed light on issues like overreliance on technology and potential hindrances to comprehension, a significant gap remains in fully understanding the implications for elementary school students, especially within the unique pandemic context. To bridge this gap, this study explored the effects of various technological tools used in remote learning settings on students’ comprehension, providing valuable insights for educators, parents, and policymakers to promote responsible and effective use of educational technology. A basic qualitative design was employed for this study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, which provided a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms behind the effects of technology on students’ comprehension. The findings demonstrated positive outcomes associated with technology integration: students reported improved comprehension, higher engagement with learning materials innovatively, and a deeper grasp of subjects. Parents and teachers also acknowledged the benefits and cited easy access to information and enjoyable learning experiences. Nevertheless, challenges such as limited device availability and health issues from technology overuse impacted comprehension in some cases. Proposed strategies to address these challenges include better education and training for teachers and educational initiatives to enhance students’ familiarity with technology.