Publication Date

5-2016

Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)

3-17-2016

Type of Culminating Activity

Dissertation

Degree Title

Doctor of Education in Educational Technology

Department

Educational Technology

Supervisory Committee Chair

Ross Perkins, Ph.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Kerry Rice, Ed.D.

Supervisory Committee Member

Jesús Trespalacios, Ph.D.

Abstract

Technology is now considered a critical component and an integral part of a high-quality education (Ertmer & Ottenbreit-Leftwich, 2010). Teachers must be equipped to handle the transactional relationship and dynamics of integrating technology in the classroom (Mishra & Koehler, 2006). Professional development should be designed and implemented to improve instruction and ensure all students are afforded the opportunity to learn effectively using technology. The problem is that current staff development models designed to help teachers integrate technology into their instruction have not resulted in the effective transformation of instructional practices to utilize technology as part of the teaching and learning process (Holland, 2001; Laferriére, Lamon, & Chan, 2006). The purpose of this design based study is to develop and determine a professional development framework that will impact teachers’ instructional practices toward technology integration and transformative practices that emphasize active learning, critical thinking, creativity, and communication. In this study, teachers engage in a 15-week professional learning opportunity with multiple components noted in the literature as impacting teacher practice. The goal of the professional learning opportunity was to move teachers toward effective technology integration. This study examined two iterations during the professional learning opportunity that resulted in the following recommended design components for future professional learning frameworks that will move teachers toward effective technology integration: grade level/team collaborative planning time using the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework to plan, revise, and evaluate lessons; peer observation time; individual technology coaching time; small, group differentiated learning time based on teachers’ needs/goals; and support materials/resources as part of each component. This should be accomplished via the provision of providing teachers with ample, structured, consistent, and focused time for professional learning in order to develop teachers’ attitudes, self-efficacy, and knowledge and skills for transformative practice using technology. These components coupled with the provision of ample, structured time for learning have the potential for moving teachers toward more effective technology integration.

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