Teachers' perceptions of professional development for one-to-one technology integration in an elementary school setting

Advisors: Cindy York.Committee members: Jason Rhode; Andrew Tawfik.Pagination repeats number vii.Includes illustrations.Includes bibliographical references.Research supports the educational value of students using one-to-one devices in the school setting. For the purpose of this case study, a one-to-one device is a small portable electronic computing device. This dissertation examines how putting a one-to-one-device into the hands of every student directly affects the professional development needs of teachers as it relates to teachers' ability to integrate technology into their instruction. Specifically, this case study analyzes how professional development is perceived by teachers as it relates to their integration of one-to-one technology into instruction and what type of professional development teachers prefer in order to meaningfully implement one-to-one technology into their instruction. Hence, this dissertation addresses what type of technology professional development is necessary for the successful implementation of one-to-one devices. This case study looked at teacher self-efficacy in using technology during instruction, as well as the professional development needs teachers may have, which would allow for their effective integration of technology into instruction. The results indicate that if technology is an integral part of how a teacher delivers instruction, teachers then need to be empowered with the necessary professional development. After analyzing the teachers' perceptions of professional development as it related to one-to-one technology integration, the three themes that emerged from this case study were lack of structured professional development, unclear expectations, and attitudinal resistance to one-to-one device integration. This case study identified that the teachers in the study's school district lack the appropriate level of professional development to implement one-to-one technology meaningfully into their instruction. By identifying the problem and analyzing the data through an online survey and face-to-face interviews, the reader will be better able to understand why teachers may not be prepared to deliver instruction using one-to-one devices without a more defined vision from their district and technology professional development that will meet their individual needs. These findings are significant because they will help school districts plan the appropriate level and types of professional development opportunities that are needed to support their teachers in effectively implementing one-to-one technology into instruction.Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy