Date of Award

Fall October 2009

Access Restriction

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate in Education

Department

Education

School or College

School of Education

First Advisor

Edmundo F. Litton

Second Advisor

Franca Dell'Olio

Third Advisor

Mary K. McCullough

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate two important aspects of educational technology: leadership and implementation. The research conducted in this study aimed to assess three aspects of leadership as it relates to educational technology: leadership that supports the technology implementation process, leadership that supports the change associated implementing technology, and leadership that supports a culture that embraces technology. An additional purpose of this study was to evaluate the process, procedures, and actions of implementing educational technology at three Catholic elementary schools in ways that foster a culture that promotes a supportive disposition towards educational technology.

The data from the interviews, document reviews, and site observations revealed that leadership styles and practices that support the adaptation to change and a culture that can embrace technology are vital to the educational technology implementation process. This study confirmed literature that contends that partnership, collaboration, and ownership from all stakeholders are essential conditions in being able to cultivate change and sustain a culture that embraces technology. In addition, this study identified and discusses the significance of effective educational technology leaders, professional development, the establishment of a vision, mission, and plan, proper technology maintenance, and the idea that technology is a resource that is meant to enhance rather than replace teaching and instruction.

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