Date of Award
2003
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Programs for Higher Education
Advisor
Regina A. Klein
Committee Member
Patrick O. Chambers
Committee Member
Barbara Packer
Keywords
Advanced Technologies Academy, computer-assisted instruction, computer-managed instruction, educational assessment, evaluation methods, in-service education, integrated classrooms, instructional effectiveness, management, staff development, student benefits, student learning, survey research, teacher instruction, teacher perceptions, teachers, teaching methods, technology, technology-driven classrooms, technology education, technology integration, technological tools, training, utilization
Abstract
There appears to be a consensus among educators that teaching with new technologies requires new methods of evaluation. Although there is a body of research investigating the effects of computer-assisted instruction on student learning with largely favorable results, few studies have examined the efficacy of technology in integrated classrooms. This study was designed to determine if teachers at Advanced Technologies Academy improved their management, instruction, and student learning with the use of technology.
Using survey research methodology, the study sample, consisting of 25 teachers, provided information on their perceptions regarding technology integration and instructional effectiveness, student benefits, utilization of technological tools, and the need for in-service training on the use of such tools. The findings of the study suggest that the teachers surveyed have a preference for technology-driven classroom environments as compared to a more traditional classroom. As well, the results of the study indicate that technology integration is to be perceived as improving teacher instruction while providing benefits to students. The study documents the ongoing need for additional staff development on technology integration. On the basis of the results, a staff development plan was included as a basis for providing teachers with the support, training, coaching, and ongoing follow-up necessary to improve efforts for integrating technology within the classroom.