Measuring teachers-as-learners' digital skills and readiness to study online for successful e-learning experience

Abstract

Previous studies have analysed the need to measure learners' readiness for online learning. In the framework of education reform in Latvia, by the end of 2021 the National Centre for Education will implement online courses for all school teachers. However, there is a lack of studies investigating teachers-as-learners' readiness to study online in Latvia. The aim of the study was to assess Latvian teachers' readiness to study online with focus on the differences of respondents' socio-demographic or professional characteristics. 1092 teachers from 100 schools filled in the self-evaluation survey form online. Statistically significant differences were found in all subscales of the survey. Differences in digital skills and in readiness to study online were found at all education levels by respondents' gender, age group or place of living. Younger respondents, males or city inhabitants showed higher rates. E-learning course should be customized, taking into account learners' socio-demographic parameters and online learning readiness rate.