PPIG 2026 - 37th Annual Workshop
Exploring the impact of a single TPL session on Primary School Teachers’ Domain-Specific Self-Esteem
Amanda O’Farrell, Keith Quille, Keith Nolan
Abstract: The introduction of Ireland’s redeveloped Primary School Curriculum positions Digital Technology (DT) as a core area of learning, creating new demands for primary teachers, many of whom lack prior preparation. This study examines whether a single, targeted Teacher Professional Learning (TPL) intervention can enhance teachers’ domain-specific self-esteem in DT. A quantitative pre–post survey design was employed with participants attending targeted workshops. DT self-esteem was measured using an adapted, reliable instrument, and principal component analysis was used to generate a composite score. A paired-samples t-test revealed a statistically significant increase in DT self-esteem following the intervention, with a moderate-to-large effect size. Reduced variability in post-scores indicated greater consistency among participants. The findings suggest that brief, focused TPL interventions can meaningfully enhance teachers’ confidence in DT, supporting their readiness to engage with curriculum reform.