This study explored how higher education lecturers enact transformative pedagogical leadership in their classrooms through integrating traditional teaching tools with emerging digital technologies. Guided by Student Engagement theory, the study examines how lecturers blend “chalkboards” (represented by PowerPoint slides) with “chatbots” and innovative technologies such as ChatGPT, YouTube videos, flipped classrooms, Slido, Blackboard WIKI links and Blackboard Discussion Board Forums to enhance behavioural, emotional, and cognitive engagement among preservice teachers. Employing a mixed methods research design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with seven purposively selected lecturers who teach undergraduate and postgraduate education modules, as well as a student survey capturing learners’ experiences during technology-enhanced class sessions. Interview data were analysed inductively to illuminate how lecturers conceptualise, enact, and reflect on their technology-integrated pedagogical practices, while the survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics to identify trends in student engagement and perceptions of blended learning activities. The study found that lecturers enhance student engagement through blended pedagogy, integrating digital tools for diverse instructional strategies. While this fosters participation and autonomy, challenges include uneven digital literacy and limited training. Recommendations highlight the need for structured professional development and institutional support. The study, therefore, reinforces the imperative for higher education institutions to prioritise transformative lecturer leadership as a cornerstone for cultivating dynamic, future-oriented teaching and learning environments.

Authors:
Lulama Mdodana-Zide, University of the Free State, South Africa

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Lulama Mdodana-Zide is currently a Senior lecturer and Teaching Practice Subject Head and Acting Head of Department (Leadership and Management) at the University of the Free State (UFS), Qwaqwa Campus, in the Faculty of Education.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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