ELEMENTS OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT THAT IMPACT TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION IN THE CLASSROOM

Abstract

Technology in the hands of students has the potential to enhance teaching and learning. Teachers need to be provided with professional development experiences to learn best practices to integrate technology. Based on research, successful elements of impactful PD include a technology coach to provide PD and support integration in the classroom. The research study examined the technology professional development experiences of K- 12 teachers that support technology integration. Based on input from the technology coaches, all teachers are not provided consistent opportunities to learn about technology tools and enhance instruction. Students are not provided consistent experiences with technology to impact their learning. The teacher technology professional development model should reflect elements that support successful integration. The study design used for the research was a mixed-methods case study. Data regarding professional development experiences were provided by teachers and technology coaches through online questionnaires. A sample of teachers and technology coaches participated in interviews to further investigate professional development activities that support technology use. The qualitative and quantitative data provided insight into the professional development experiences and the role of the technology coach. The results identified elements of teacher professional development and the role of a technology coach that impact technology-rich instructional practices. The teacher data revealed three themes, including teachers’ perceptions of technology and use with students, the qualities of impactful PD content, and PD formats supported by the technology coach. The technology coach data identified three themes, the perceptions of teacher and student technology use, features of PD content offered to teachers, and impactful PD formats supported by the technology coach. Based on the study, technology PD has the potential to impact technology integration in the classroom. Implications from the study include implementing the elements of impactful PD and constructs of coaching when planning technology PD for teachers. Important elements of the technology coach include building relationships, personalizing instruction, collaborating with the teachers, focusing on classroom content, and ongoing training. Other considerations include the best time to provide PD and support the teachers. If provided with impactful professional development opportunities, teachers may be more inclined to integrate technology in the classroom.