Navigating Post-Pandemic Terrain in Goa, India: French Language Educators' TPACK Proficiency and ODL Preparedness

Abstract

The importance of having Open and Distance Learning (ODL) was felt in a tremendous way during the COVID-19 pandemic. The stakeholders in Goa, India, responded to the Herculean challenge of providing education in online distance mode by training teachers on their technological skills. During this period, the Ministry of Education, Government of India also put into action the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) which encourages the use of technology to improve the learning experience. In addition, at the school level, Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing (DIKSHA), a national platform was also being used as a repository of eContent for teachers, learners and caregivers. Considering the focus on ODL in NEP 2020, it is essential that teachers have the required techno-pedagogical skills. Thus, we attempt to measure the level of Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) of French foreign language teachers in Goa, India. We further investigate to what extent variables such as zone and age play an important role. Using the mixed method approach, data were collected using a validated TPACK questionnaire and followed by depth interviews from August to December 2023. The results indicate that the French language teachers in Goa, India have a notable TPACK score, however, those in certain age and area-wise groups have varying levels in certain sub-criteria. Based on this data, recommendations are made for training workshops in order to equip teachers with the required skills for ODL.