Reclaiming the teacher perspective in digital education–an analysis of university teachers’ agency

Abstract

Current approaches to digital technology in higher education teaching and learning often instrumentalise teaching and teachers in paving the way for technology. Reclaiming the teacher perspective, this article explores teachers’ agency in relation to technology in higher education. The aim is addressed through examining how teachers address the technological benefits for teaching. Analysing data from Danish university teachers (n = 479), we identify eight benefits of technology use underpinned by five value categories. The results show that teaching is multifaceted and that several factors contribute to the achievement of agency in digital teaching. The study provides a more substantial basis for making choices on digital education that align with teachers’ values and practices.