Exploring the influence of new media and mobile technologies at tertiary education in a developing country: a case study of teacher-student interactions in Northern Cyprus during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

COVID-19 pandemic and technological developments have changed the attribute and form of human communication. The main purpose of this quantitative research was to delve into the influence of digital technologies over communication and teacher-student interactions amid the pandemic at a major university in Northern Cyprus. The findings indicated that the use of digital technologies cultivated teacher-student interactions in or out of school settings, transformed the roles of teachers into facilitators and mentors, and increased teachers' accessibility. The new phase also assisted students to comprehend the topics discussed in class easily. Furthermore, technological innovations created new sources of information for both parties to enhance course contents, boost students' self-esteem, allow education out of the school settings and escalate the effectiveness of education by promoting self-cultivation. Mobile technologies removed communication barriers between educators and learners by allowing them to reinforce their interactions virtually, yet, they cause technology addiction and decline face-to-face communication.