Date of Award
2004
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Fischler Graduate School of Education and Human Services
Advisor
Kenneth E. Varcoe
Committee Member
Richard C. Conrath
Committee Member
Marian Gibney
Committee Member
Barbara Packer
Keywords
academic leadership, alternative education, alternative learning methodologies, communication plans, computer assisted instruction, equipment renewal, evaluation, executive leadership, faculty support, Grant MacEwan College, infrastructure, MacEwan, policy development, student retention, student satisfaction, student support, TALM, technology integration, technology literacy, technology planning, technology plans, Vice-President Academic, vision development
Abstract
The purpose of the applied dissertation was to assess the current status and develop a plan for the integration of the technology and alternative learning methodologies (TALM) at Grant MacEwan College. The research questions prompted processes to obtain information from others who integrated TALM, determine the current status of TALM integration at MacEwan, develop an appropriate TALM integration plan for MacEwan, and determine how the plan would be evaluated. Both development and evaluation methodologies were utilized. Procedures included a thorough review of institutions that integrated TALM, the development and validation of a technology integration plan, and approaches to evaluate the implementation.
Based on the outcomes of the study, it was concluded that the commitment of leadership at the executive level is essential to successful integration of TALM. Both student and faculty support area are essential; however, faculty do not require technology literacy to participate. There is a need for a clearly articulated vision for TALM, relevant policies, and a plan for equipment renewal. The plan addresses the leadership framework, communication plan, support systems for faculty and students, and infrastructure and technology support needed.
It was recommended that the study results be communicated to the Vice-President, Academic, academic leadership teams, and faculty. Future research could examine the effectiveness of TALM, identify measures to increase student satisfaction and retention, and compare interest in technology with actual implementation of TALM.