Effective Teaching in the 21st Century: Investigating Barriers and Solutions from One University in Assam, India

Abstract

Teaching in the 21st century era is more dynamic than before. Notably, the emergence of technology in education has radically transformed the pedagogical practices of teachers in the 21st century. Because of these changes, new challenges for teachers in schools and colleges also emerge. However, the study was aimed at investigating the contemporary challenges teachers encounter in higher education in the 21st century. The study further explored the possible solutions to the challenges. The study employed qualitative case study design in order to thoroughly understand the in-depth perception of teachers towards the topic under investigation. The data were collected using a semi–structured interview which was administered telephonically. Additionally, a sample of 5 teachers from 5 departments in the selected University was drawn based on convenience as it was time for Covid-19 which restricted movement and physical interaction. Overall, findings from the study suggest that teachers in the 21st-century era are confronted with numerous challenges which adversely affect the teaching–learning process. The challenges can be broadly summarised as technological, adjustment and resource-based challenges. In order to address these challenges, the participants recommended that there should be adequate research, provision of CPD courses, proper technical support on how to integrate technology in the teaching–learning processes.