Date of Award
2012
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Abraham S. Fischler College of Education
Advisor
Timothy Shields
Committee Member
Ninoska Rivas de Rojas
Committee Member
Ronald P. Kern
Keywords
barriers to technology integration, classroom technology implementation, computer technology, concerns-based adoption model, curriculum implementation, grade levels taught, instructional technology, middle school teachers, professional development, stages of concern, Stages of Concern Questionnaire, teacher concerns, teacher training, teaching experience, technology implementation, technology integration, wireless classrooms
Abstract
The purpose of this research study was to conduct an analysis of concerns experienced by teachers when it came to the implementation of instructional technology in the curriculum. As a result of a lack of technology implementation at the study site, teachers were surveyed in order to analyze concerns that could have been barriers. The theoretical foundation of this research was the concerns-based adoption model (CBAM). In addition, a literature assessment of the effectiveness of teaching with technology, barriers to technology integration, and professional development was conducted to further support the research.
Four research questions were addressed in the study: 1. What are teachers’ concerns about instructional technology as measured by the Stages of Concern Questionnaire (SoCQ)? 2. Are there significant relationships between teachers’ stages of concern and years of teaching experience? 3. Are there significant relationships between teachers’ stages of concern and grade level taught? 4. What do researchers indicate as best practices for professional development when it comes to technology integration in the curriculum?
Quantitative data was gathered using the SoCQ, as well as models from the literature that aided in gathering information for successful technology implementation in the classroom. The survey results provided teachers with a better understanding of their concern barriers. In addition, this study aided administration in shaping plans for future technology training in a school implementing wireless classrooms.