Abstract
Digitalization in education is crucial because it transforms conventional learning strategies and offers new options for both students and teachers. This research aims to look into how transformational headteachers are practicing digitalization in primary schools in Bangladesh. This study follows a mixed method that includes both qualitative and quantitative approaches. At first transformational leadership self-assessment scale, which McShane et al. developed based on the research of Podsakoff et al., was used to measure transformational head teachers. Then 16 head teachers, 16 teachers, and 16 FGDs were conducted to get in-depth views. This study indicates that primary school head teachers who demonstrate transformational leadership have the vision to digitalize their schools because they are conscious of the digitalization impact, but due to financial barriers, resource shortage, and infrastructural constraints, lack of skills among them and class teachers, head teachers cannot practice digitalization in their school, which is the barrier for ensuring quality education.
TopIntroduction
The most significant trend that is transforming society both now and in the future is regarded to be digitalization. The largest population on earth is able to meet their diverse demands met in an ever-more-efficient and timely manner due to digitalization (Conde & Wasiq, 2021; Craglia et al., 2012; Dornberger et al., 2018; Strohmeir, 2020). The term “digitalization” describes the process of incorporating digital tools, technology, and practices into numerous facets of society and organizations. It entails the conversion of analog data, systems, and processes into digital ones. Leveraging digitalized data and processes, digitalization is about systems of interaction, systems of insight, and using digital technology (Brennen & Kreiss, 2016; De Clerck, 2017; Gebayew et al., 2018; Gobbel, 2018; Reis et al., 2020). Digitalization in education is crucial because it transforms conventional learning strategies and offers new options for both students and teachers. It provides students access to a wide range of online resources, multimedia information, and interactive technologies (Bejinaru, 2019; Kalolo, 2019; Ronzhina et al., 2021). Digitalization allows for customizing and adapting instruction to each student's needs and learning preferences. It encourages student and teacher collaboration and communication, promoting global connectivity and exposure to many viewpoints (Jelfs & Richardson, 2013; Mia & Omar, 2012; Tunmibi et al., 2015). Digitalization in education improves the learning environment by fostering innovation, inclusivity, and lifelong learning in an increasingly digital world. Students benefit from digitalization by gaining critical digital citizenship and literacy skills. (İbrahimoğlu, 2020; Ronzhina et al., 2021; Schmidt & Tang, 2020; Tangül & Soykan, 2021).
Key Terms in this Chapter
Digitalization: The process of incorporating digital tools and technologies into different facets of business, society, and daily life is known as digitalization. It entails converting analog or manual systems, processes, and information into digital formats to increase accessibility, connectedness, and efficiency. The spread of internet connectivity, the accessibility and affordability of digital technology, and the awareness of the potential advantages in terms of cost savings, enhanced consumer experiences, and competitive advantage are what are driving digitalization.
Digital Literacy: The ability to interact effectively and responsibly with digital tools, technologies, and information is referred to as digital literacy. It entails technological expertise, critical thinking, digital communication, teamwork, and a solid grasp of digital citizenship ideals. For the purpose of navigating the digital environment, accessing and assessing information, and actively engaging in the digital age, one must have digital literacy.
Transformational Leadership: A leadership style known as transformational leadership is characterized by encouraging and motivating subordinates to realize their full potential and go beyond their own expectations. It requires leaders that have the ability to inspire others by establishing clear objectives, presenting a compelling vision, and displaying excitement and emotion. By giving their followers the necessary assistance, tools, and opportunities for growth, transformational leaders enable and develop their followers. They promote open communication and teamwork as well as a spirit of cooperation, trust, and respect.
Digital Citizenship: Digital citizenship refers to the ethical and responsible use of digital technologies, and it includes the concepts of digital rights, responsible behavior, online safety, critical thinking, and constructive digital interaction. It places a focus on acquiring the abilities, information, and attitudes necessary for people to move about the digital environment with responsibility, respect, and knowledge.
Intellectual Stimulation: In the context of leadership, the idea of intellectual stimulation entails motivating and stretching people to think critically, creatively, and independently. Leaders who engage in intellectual stimulation develop a culture that values and encourages original thought, curiosity, and lifelong learning. Intellectually stimulating leaders encourage their followers to challenge presumptions, consider novel concepts, and approach issues from several perspectives.
Individualized Consideration: Individualized consideration is a transformative leadership idea that emphasizes the leader's capacity to recognize and respond to the particular needs, assets, and aspirations of every follower. Individualized consideration is a sign that a leader genuinely cares about the welfare and growth of their subordinates. Individualized leaders take an effort to get to know their followers personally, learning about their objectives, assets, and weaknesses.
Idealized Influence: Idealized influence describes a leader's capacity to inspire people and win their respect, confidence, and admiration. The perception of leaders with idealized influence is that they are charismatic, dependable, and have high ethical standards. They represent the ideals and traits that admirers and followers strive to imitate.
Inspirational Motivation: Creating a compelling vision and encouraging excitement and optimism are two ways that leaders can inspire and motivate their followers. This notion of inspirational motivation is related to transformational leadership. Leaders with inspirational motivation have the capacity to articulate a compelling future vision, establishing high standards and objectives for their followers. They effectively communicate the mission and goals of the group or team, giving their followers' work a sense of direction and significance.