Examining the Integration of Instructional Technology and Pedagogical Strategies into K-12 Technology Education Classrooms

This systematic literature review examines the integration of instructional technologies and pedagogical strategies in K-12 technology education classrooms, addressing two research questions: (1) How are instructional technologies integrated into K-12 technology education classrooms? (2) What pedagogical strategies for integrating instructional technology enhance student engagement during the teaching and learning process? Analyzing 27 peer-reviewed studies published between 2014 and 2024, the findings identify five key categories of instructional technologies: direct instructional delivery tools, immersive technologies, fabrication tools, programming/robotics platforms, and AI-driven chatbots. Results indicate that effective integration hinges on aligning technologies with pedagogical goals, such as collaborative learning, project-based activities, and experiential strategies. A recurring theme is the critical role of teacher preparedness and professional development in overcoming barriers like technology anxiety and misalignment. While immersive technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbots demonstrate significant potential for engagement, challenges such as resource inequity and sustainability persist. This study contributes practical recommendations for educators and policymakers to foster equitable, engaging, and pedagogically grounded integration of instructional technologies, emphasizing the need for ongoing teacher training and context-sensitive implementation.