Technology integration by business studies teachers in South Africa to equip learners with employability skills

Abstract

Nowadays, there is a unique set of skills that is critical for individuals to operate optimally in the 21stcentury business environment. Specifically, skills such as problem-solving, creative thinking, communication, entrepreneurship, and technological skills are critical for individuals to operate optimally in the 21st century. Against this background, a qualitative study was conducted to explore business studies teachers' technology integration to equip learners with employability skills. This study is located within an interpretive research paradigm. The case study was employed as a research design, while Skills Acquisition Theory serves as the lens of the study. Six schools in Kwa-Zulu Natal province, South Africa, were conveniently selected, and one business studies teacher per school was purposively selected. Interviews and classroom observations were adopted to collect data, and it was analysed thematically. The study found that most teachers attempt to integrate technological tools to nurture learners' employability skills; however, their technology integration skills still need improvement. As a result, the recommendation is made that teachers be taken through professional development to help them acquire technology integration skills that would enable them to integrate technology to nurture learners' employability skills required by the 21st-century business environment