WhatsApp as an educational tool: perspectives of pre-service teachers

Abstract

This study explores pre-service teachers’ perspectives about the use ofWhatsApp as an educational tool. This is a qualitative project set within aninterpretive paradigm. Sixteen pre-service teachers at a University ofTechnology voluntarily agreed to be part of this study. These pre-serviceteachers were divided into two groups of eight participants each to takepart in a focus group discussion. The data collected were analysed deduc-tively, linking it to literature and the Community of Inquiry theoreticalframework. The results show that despite challenges, pre-service teachersused WhatsApp because of its benefits, which include cost-effectiveness,quick dissemination of information, supporting learning and relievingstress among preservice teachers. The researchers concluded that lec-turers and pre-service teachers should adopt and adapt WhatsApp forteaching and learning as a tool that supplements the learning manage-ment system in order to meet the contextual and diverse learning needsof students.