An Analysis of Students' Academic Performance When Integrating DVD Technology in Geography Teaching and Learning

This article discusses the effect of the integration of the Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) as an ICT-variant on the academic performance of full-time geography teacher students enrolled for a Bachelor of Education (B. Ed.) degree at a rural university in a developing country. Action research (which includes both quantitative and qualitative studies), done over three years, attempted to determine if the integration of DVD technology can effectively support the teaching and learning of geography teacher students in a learner-centred learning environment, despite a 55% decrease in contact time, as well as a change of normal contact sessions (lectures) to that of a seminar format. It also explains how the DVD was compiled to suit this DVD method, the DVD method itself and how to employ it effectively in conjunction with seminars. Students’ perceptions about this method were continuously considered and changes were made steered by their need and feedback. Results indicate that this learner-centred DVD method was well received and applied by students and that it did not jeopardise their academic performance.