A Comparative Study of Early Childhood Teachers’ Digital Practices During and After COVID-19

Authors

  • Bernarda Tokić Department of Pedagogy, University of Zadar, Croatia , Oddelek za pedagogiko, Univerza v Zadru, Hrvaška
  • Matilda Karamatić Brčić Department of Pedagogy, University of Zadar, Croatia , Oddelek za pedagogiko, Univerza v Zadru, Hrvaška
  • Marijana Miočić Department of Teachers and Preschool Teachers Education, University of Zadar, Croatia , Oddelek za izobraževanje učiteljev in vzgojiteljev, Univerza v Zadru, Hrvaška

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18690/rei.4951

Keywords:

COVID-19 pandemic, digital competences, digital media, early childhood, early childhood teachers.

Abstract

This study investigates early childhood teachers’ perceptions and use of digital media during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing the need to understand evolving ICT practices in early education. Employing a longitudinal design, data were collected via structured questionnaires from the same kindergartens in 2020 and 2024. Quantitative analysis revealed stable self-assessed digital competence but changing pedagogical use and attitudes. The findings underscore the need for targeted digital training and systemic support. The study’s novelty lies in its comparative longitudinal approach, offering insight into the sustained impact of a global crisis on digital integration in early childhood education.

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Published

30.09.2025

How to Cite

Tokić, B., Karamatić Brčić, M., & Miočić, M. (2025). A Comparative Study of Early Childhood Teachers’ Digital Practices During and After COVID-19. Journal of Elementary Education, 18(3), 271-285. https://doi.org/10.18690/rei.4951