The determination of candidate teachers' attitudes regarding the use of smart classroom technologies

The aim of this study is to determine the candidate teachers' attitudes regarding the use of smart classroom technologies. The population of the study is consist of 275 candidate teachers who currently study in Firat University, Faculty of Education, Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technologies (CEIT). Descriptive survey method was used in the study and both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Demographic Information Form and attitude scales were used for data collection. Open-ended questions were also added to end of the attitude scales. Implementation of the study lasted 8 weeks in total (2013-2014 Fall) and the scales were performed afterwards. In accordance with the sub problems of the study, computer assisted package statistics programs were used for the analysis of the obtained quantitative data, descriptive statistics were obtained such as frequency and percentage, and t-test, analysis of variance and factor analysis were performed. On the other hand, for the analysis of qualitative data obtained through open-ended questions, content analysis was performed. The content was coded and grouped under specific themes by the researcher and the results were expressed in a descriptive way. Considering the results obtained from the research; candidate teachers' attitudes level is "high" towards smart board use provides a better understanding of the course, facilitates the recall of learned something, allows to focus on the course more, makes the course more interesting, creates a fun environment, increases the motivation of the candidates and makes the course more productive and interactive. Nonetheless, some technical problems occured during courses. Achieved results with the using of Student Response System (SRS) are increasing class participation, facilitation of understanding, encouraging teachers to participate in the discussions on related topics, assisting candidate teachers to prepare for the exam, encouragement to ask questions. Yet again, we found that some students encountered with some problems during the implementation. When teacher candidates' attitudes in smart classroom (SC) is examined; it is concluded that their attitude level is "high" regarding the lessons in the SC develop teacher candidates' problem-solving skills, increase their motivation on the course, being in a SC environment exciting and enable teacher candidates to learn rapidly and give them opportunity to use their ability efficiently, enable them to focus on the subject, make the course and learning catchy and exciting, increasing learning effort and academic achievement and gain a sense of excellence, and ensure equality of opportunity in education. It is expected of this study to provide information on the features of the smart classroom technologies and their pros and cons. It is also expected of this study to be the source for further studies and the teachers and trainers who wish to use these technologies in their classrooms.