Date Approved

4-29-1999

Embargo Period

7-21-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in School Administration

Department

Educational Services and Leadership

College

College of Education

Advisor

Johnson, Theodore B.

Subject(s)

Educational technology

Disciplines

Elementary and Middle and Secondary Education Administration

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to introduce the Gloucester County Special Services School District educators to the concept of using technology for the purpose of professional development.

A descriptive research method was used in the study that included a Technology Survey of the Compensatory Education Teachers. Surveys were distributed prior to and following the inservice component of the study. The technology survey instrument utilized was developed by the Intern and pretested by administrators and educators in the district. The frequency of responses were recorded and calculated into percentages for purposes of data analysis.

After experiencing exposure to the Internet through a Technology Inservice program, an overall improvement in attitude and comfort level regarding technology and accessing the Internet was reported by respondents. Individuals self-rating themselves within the ranges of "very comfortable" to "somewhat comfortable" increased substantially and the percentage of individuals rating themselves as "uncomfortable" prior to the inservice decreased. Following the inservice, 86% of the individuals surveyed reported utilizing the Internet as a resource for lesson planning and locating educational materials. This figure is significant in that it represents an increase of 64% as reported by respondents.

The study supports establishing a relationship between professional development and technology and identifies the important role inservicing plays in this process.

Download

Share

COinS