Technological competency levels of social studies teachers (Bursa province case)

This study has been conducted in order to determine the technological competency levels of social studies teachers in terms of diverse variables. The mixed method in which quantitative and qualitative research patterns are in conjunction has been used in the study. All the data have been collected using the questionnaire and interview methods. The research involves social studies teachers who work in the central districts of Bursa province (Osmangazi, Nilüfer, Yıldırım). The scale of "Basic Technology Competencies for Educators", which was developed by Flowers and Algozzine (2000) which has been studied in terms of validity and reliability by Tekinarslan in Turkish context, has been used to collect quantitative data. The qualitative data has been gathered using the interview form called "Technology Competencies of Social Studies Teachers." In this context, the scale of "Basic Technology Competencies for Educators" has been applied to 107 teachers. There have been interviews with 10 teachers using the interview form "Technology Competencies of Social Studies Teachers". Based on the data obtained as a result of the study, the technology competency level of the social studies teachers has been found to be between "A less adequate" – "Adequate". The results have also revealed that male teachers are better at using technology than female teachers. It has been observed that the teachers who have a working experience of 1-5 years of seniority are more competent in technology use than the teachers who have more experience. As a result of the interviews with the social studies teachers, it has been deduced that teachers have inadequacy in using educational technologies and difficulty in coping with new technological advancements. As a consequence, teachers are required to improve themselves by attending the courses and seminars which are supported by various institutions, particularly the state. At the end of the study some recommendations have been put forward for social studies teachers in order to enhance their technology competency.