Prospective Teachers' Attitudes Towards the Integration of Emerging Educational Technologies: Evidence from Lahore

Abstract

The rapid advancement of emerging educational technologies has transformed teaching and learning practices, making it essential for prospective teachers to develop positive attitudes toward their integration in educational settings. This study aimed to examine the overall attitudes of prospective teachers in Lahore towards the integration of emerging educational technologies. A quantitative descriptive survey design was employed to collect data from 400 prospective teachers enrolled in public and private universities in Lahore. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select the participants. Data were collected through a self-developed questionnaire comprising demographic information and items measuring attitudes toward seven categories of emerging educational technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Game-Based Learning, Learning Management Systems (LMS), Blockchain in Education, and Mobile Learning. The instrument was validated through expert review and pilot testing, demonstrating satisfactory reliability (Cronbach's alpha > .70). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that prospective teachers generally exhibited a positive attitude towards the integration of emerging educational technologies in education. Participants recognized the potential of these technologies to enhance teaching effectiveness, student engagement, and learning experiences, although variations were observed across different technology domains. The study highlights the importance of strengthening teacher education programs by providing practical exposure, digital competency training, and institutional support to prepare future teachers for technology-enhanced classrooms. The findings offer valuable implications for teacher educators, university administrators, and policymakers seeking to promote effective integration of emerging educational technologies in teacher education.

Keywords: Emerging Educational Technologies, Prospective Teachers, Attitude, Teacher Education, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Learning, Lahore.