Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Educational innovations'
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Chunga, Bright Mwansa. "Evaluating educational innovations : a study of a Zambian upper primary schools' practical subjects education innovation." Thesis, University of Sussex, 1990. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.333734.
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Chimombo, Joseph Patrick Goodson. "Implementing educational innovations : a study of free primary education in Malawi." Thesis, University of Sussex, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.310250.
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The new democratic government of Malawi introduced free primary education (FPE) in the 1994/95 academic year. This major policy intervention included the removal of tuition and other school fees, and children were no longer required to wear a uniform to attend school. The main objectives ofFPE were to increase access to primary education and to eliminate inequalities in participation through reducing the direct costs, and to improve retention rates and thus reduce illiteracy. FPE is the most significant educational policy ever introduced in Malawi. Its development invited a detailed study of how participation has changed, what mechanisms were employed to improve retention and promotion, and what strategies were used to meet the need for additional human and physical resources. There are four main concerns which shaped this study: 1) The genesis of the policy- how was the policy initiated and for what reasons? 2) The policy itself- i.e. what did the policy consist of and what did the ministry of education do? 3) What happened after the introduction of FPE and how did enrolment, access and retention change over time? 4) Why did things happen the way they did and what are the reasons which help explain the effect of implementing FPE? Data were collected through grounded case studies of ten schools undertaken in different parts of Malawi. The literature indicates that judgements on the effectiveness of policy implementation require insights that can only be obtained from case study work at the local level. Those involved in the development of policy were interviewed and national level data were also analysed. Systems theory was used to examine the relationships between system components, between the system and its environment and between one system and another, and the major concepts of this theory of interdependence, integration and cohesion were used to analyse and interpret the findings of this thesis. At the macro level, the study also drew on functionalist theory. In order to examine how educational institutions perceive, manipulate and act within the structural constraints within which they find themselves, the socio-politico-cultural frameworks within which, and through which these institutions have shaped schooling under FPE were elaborated. The analysis has shown that the immediate goal of ensuring universal access to primary education has been largely achieved. Most children in Malawi have set foot inside a school of some kind. But when the implementation of FPE policy was examined within the Jomtien aspirations which included improving educational quality, ensuring greater equity in the distribution of educational resources, and improving retention and attendance, the thesis concludes that Malawi lacks the administrative and fiscal capacity to deliver primary education of minimum quality to all. This deficiency leads to system fragmentation and low cohesion in the implementation process which partly explains the limitations of FPE policy identified. The study established that schooling problems might have worsened since the introduction of FPE and that despite increased efforts towards girls education, gender disparities still remain one of the main problems. Further, the rhetorical association of schooling with economic opportunity is questionable, at least for those where the demand for schooling is weak and the benefits not apparent. A simulation modelling costs also indicates that achieving EFA is financially unsustainable in the short and medium term. The findings provide pointers about what needs to be done or strengthened in order to ensure a more effective implementation of an ambitious and worthwhile educational policy reform in Malawi, as well as the lessons that can be learned for the implementation of similar reforms.
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Bosch, Horacio E., Claudia Guzner, Mercedes S. Bergero, Blasi Mario A. Di, Adriana Schilardi, and Leonor Carvajal. "Innovations in Educational Research and Teaching of Experimental Calculus." Saechsische Landesbibliothek- Staats- und Universitaetsbibliothek Dresden, 2012. http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bsz:14-qucosa-79493.
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For several decades, there have been a varying number of books on Calculus following the classic line of mathematical thought, where Mathematics is taught for everybody by means of rigorous definitions, theorems, and carefully detailed and extensive demonstrations. For mathematical education into the XXI Century the students need to achieve ability in handling of present mathematical tools and concepts from the beginning of their courses. These needs can be achieved today by means of a paradigmatic change in the focus of mathematics teaching: to learn to develop ideas and to experiment and test those ideas in such way that students can verify their own inferences. In this paper we report an educational research in teaching
and learning functions models according to a new paradigm in hands-on experimental mathematics, with applications in the real world, i.e. sciences and engineering by using Computer Algebra Systems. The study of functions is presented, focused into the framing of Exploratory Learning Systems, where students learn
by means of the action and their participation in it. It is designed for teachers working together with students in a computer laboratory like hands-on workshops-type activities on other sciences. In this way students have a more “alive”, “realistic” and “accessible” touch in Calculus.
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ROARK, DENIS DAREL. "FACTORS AFFECTING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY IN HIGHER EDUCATION (COMMUNITY COLLEGES)." Diss., The University of Arizona, 1985. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/188011.
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Advances in computer and video technology, coupled with their decreasing cost, have placed considerable impetus for implementation of new technology in the educational environment. While many institutions of higher education are considering implementing systems of new educational technology, the actual process of implementing change is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to attempt to gain greater insight into the implementation process. The research questions guiding this study were: (1) What are the factors associated with the implementation of new educational technology at community colleges? (2) Who are the change agents associated with the implementaon of new educational technology at community colleges? The case study methodology was selected as the most appropriate technique for this study because: (1) research involving the implementation stage of the change process has been limited; (2) the change process does not have a single theoretical basis for conducting empirical testing; and (3) the complexity of the subject being investigated. Three community colleges in the southwestern United States, which have recently completed the implementation of an innovation, were selected for the case study research. The innovation under investigation at Vernon Regional Junior College was the implementation of a microcomputer system. The subject of investigation at Dona Ana Branch Community College was the implementation of equipment to support a word processing program. The implementation of an instructional television program was studied at New Mexico Junior College. Seven factors emerged as common to all three institutions as they implemented innovation. The seven common factors were: (1) the availability of funds outside the normal operating budget to finance implementation of innovation; (2) elimination of boundary contraction; (3) individuals affected by the innovation had input into the implementation process; (4) clear channels of communication existed among those involved in the implementation process; (5) the hierarchy involved in the approval process was limited; (6) the administration supported plans to implement the innovation; and (7) measures were taken to reduce resistance to the innovation. Change agents were found to be a necessary catalyst for change and can emerge from any level of governance.
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Robottom, Ian Morris, and kimg@deakin edu au. "Contestation and continuity in educational reform: A critical study of innovations in environmental education." Deakin University. School of Education, 1985. http://tux.lib.deakin.edu.au./adt-VDU/public/adt-VDU20031126.092202.
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This study explores the notion of contestation in environmental education. Contestation is a process in which self-interested individuals and groups in a social organisation cooperate, compete and negotiate in a complex interaction aimed at solving social problems. A "framework for critique" is developed, comprising technicist, liberal
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Garcia, Myrna E. "The effects of whole school reform on instructional program coherence in urban elementary schools /." READ FULL-TEXT ONLINE, 2006. http://domapp01.shu.edu/depts/uc/apps/libraryrepository.nsf/resourceid/25C7D3260CA9A8D1852571570069ADE1/$File/Garcia-Myrna-E-Doctorate6.pdf?Open.
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Christy, Sheila Ann Colley. "Future developments of computer network technologies in K-12 educational environments /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 1997. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p9842520.
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Beyerlein, Ranae. "Creating hopeful learning environments collisions in practice /." Diss., Connect to online resource - MSU authorized users, 2008.
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Thesis (Ph. D.)--Michigan State University. Dept. of K-12 Educational Administration, 2008.Title from PDF t.p. (viewed on March 31, 2009) Includes bibliographical references (p. 273-285). Also issued in print.
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Taddessee, Mellesse Amossa. "The role of education in combatting famine and promoting development in Ethiopia /." Access Digital Full Text version, 1990. http://pocketknowledge.tc.columbia.edu/home.php/bybib/10939258.
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Ferneding, Karen Ann. "The diffusion of electronic technologies and the dialectic of educational reform policy : the shaping of teachers' social visions /." Digital version accessible at:, 1999. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/utexas/main.
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Trochil, Elizabeth A. "Making math matter a grant proposal /." Menomonie, WI : University of Wisconsin--Stout, 2007. http://www.uwstout.edu/lib/thesis/2007/2007trochile.pdf.
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Robertson, Michael James Jones James G. "Using diffusion of innovations to explore digital gaming in undergraduate library instruction." [Denton, Tex.] : University of North Texas, 2009. http://digital.library.unt.edu/permalink/meta-dc-11011.
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Kityo, Sylvester. "Primary education reform in Uganda : assimilating indigenous education." Thesis, McGill University, 1988. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=61672.
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Калишенко, Г. О. "Роль інноватики в покращенні професійної підготовки майбутніх фахівців." Thesis, Сумський державний університет, 2015. http://essuir.sumdu.edu.ua/handle/123456789/48659.
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Інноватика – галузь знань, що вивчає закономірності процесів розвитку, формування новацій, нововведень, механізмів управління змінами, подолання опору нововведенням, адаптації до них людини, використання та поширення інноваційних потоків, інноваційної діяльності, їх вплив на сферу конкуренції, на розвиток суспільства в цілому.
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Mahleza, Nomfundo. "ICT and education in a less privileged school of NMBA." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/6237.
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Today’s society requires citizens to have a greater knowledge of information technology (IT) than in previous decades. Strategy programs at a national level define the skill needed in an information society and encourage people to learn these skills (Ministry of Education, 2004). In order for everybody to have the opportunity to learn the basics of the new technology, computer science should be included in general education. The development of technology, like Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has turned the world into a global village (Hashem, 2006). The key instrument in this globalisation is the personal computer. Computer–mediated communication is increasingly becoming the dominant means of communication, particularly in the developed and in some developing countries (Adebisi, 2008). In a developing country, ICT is one of the prime ingredients for development. This generally means improvement of people’s lifestyle through improved education, income, skills development and employment. Development should now also be viewed as a multidimensional process involving major changes in social structures, popular attitudes and a national progression of life from unsatisfactory to satisfactory (Servaes, 1999). Since one of the goals of education is to prepare students for work and citizenship, schools are attempting to change their policies, practices and a curriculum to meet the challenge of making pupils ready for a future quite different than the immediate past (Turker & Codding, 1998). The integration of ICT into the teaching and learning environment in secondary education in Port Elizabeth could change learning and teaching attitudes of learners and teachers and help to prepare them for future challenges. However, the success of this integration will depend on how the learners and teachers adapt to the changes and whether they can make ICT technologies part of their daily life. As it is, there is little or no information available regarding the extent of current ICT usage and access in these secondary schools. The research focuses on the availability, usage and the impact of ICT in education, particularly at a secondary school in the poverty-stricken area of Zwide in Port Elizabeth.
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Ridgway, Judith Sulkes. "Standards-based teaching and educational digital libraries as innovations undergraduate science faculty in the adoption process /." Columbus, Ohio : Ohio State University, 2005. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc%5Fnum=osu1133030652.
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Lazenby, Karen. "Technology and educational innovation a case study of the virtual campus of the University of Pretoria /." Diss., Pretoria : [s.n.], 2000. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-03172003-094954/.
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Lyon, Jeremy McTee. "Effective implementation of technology programs in school districts : the role of the superintendent /." Digital version accessible at:, 1999. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/utexas/main.
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Feeney, David R. "Rates of adoption in a university course management system." Morgantown, W. Va. : [West Virginia University Libraries], 2001. http://etd.wvu.edu/templates/showETD.cfm?recnum=2252.
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Thesis (Ed. D.)--West Virginia University, 2001.Title from document title page. Document formatted into pages; contains viii, 132 p. : ill. (some col.). Vita. Includes abstract. Includes bibliographical references (p. 117-130).
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Pate, John L. Baker Paul J. "A comparative case study of leadership and the integration of technology into the education program." Normal, Ill. : Illinois State University, 2006. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?index=0&did=1251859841&SrchMode=1&sid=1&Fmt=2&VInst=PROD&VType=PQD&RQT=309&VName=PQD&TS=1179156396&clientId=43838.
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Thesis (Ed. D.)--Illinois State University, 2006.Title from title page screen, viewed on May 14, 2007. Dissertation Committee: Paul Baker (chair), Patricia H. Klass, Albert T. Azinger, Gary S. O'Malley. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 155-160) and abstract. Also available in print.
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Yeung, Kam-sun. "A case study of teachers' concerns and use of information technology for teaching and learning." Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong, 2001. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B23568835.
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Baldwin, Beth Williams. "Conversations computer mediated dialogue, multilogue, and learning /." Access online version, 1996. http://wac.colostate.edu/rhetnet/baldwin.htm.
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Moore, Linda Eve. "Educators and technology, using multimedia as a teaching and presentation tool." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2001. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/2016.
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This project was intended to demonstrate how teachers can tailor classroom instruction to save time, increase student participation, enhance learning outcome, and build student self-esteem using a multimedia approach.
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Gibson, Shona. "Narratives of preservice teachers." Access electronically, 2005. http://www.library.uow.edu.au/adt-NWU/public/adt-NWU20050330.124302/index.html.
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Thesis (M.Ed.)--University of Wollongong, 2005.Typescript. Narratives are based on experiences of prospective teachers enrolled at the University of Wollongong in the Knowledge Building Community (KBC) program, which is an alternative model of teacher training. Includes bibliographical references: leaf 264-283.
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Irwin, Rita Louise. "The practical knowledge of a fine arts supervisor in educational change : a case study." Thesis, University of British Columbia, 1988. http://hdl.handle.net/2429/29235.
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Few naturalistic studies exist that take an in-depth look at the lifeworlds of consultants and supervisors. This single case study describes and interprets the practical knowledge of an exemplary Fine Arts Supervisor. In this study, the investigator acted as a participant-observer while "shadowing" Ruth Britten (a pseudonym) over a four month period. Data were derived through field research techniques, and were subjected to data analysis and interpretation.
Drawing upon a body of literature dealing with the nature of practical knowledge, this study concludes that a supervisor's practical knowledge is different from a teacher's practical knowledge in two important ways. First, curriculum implementation replaces curriculum development in the five commonplaces found in teacher practical knowledge: self, instruction, curriculum development, subject matter, and milieu. Second, the political knowledge context forms a major addition to the five orientations defined by Elbaz regarding teacher practical knowledge: theoretical, social, personal, situational, experiential. A third conclusion underlies the above: Elbaz's conceptual framework for a teacher's practical knowledge proved to be a useful starting point in determining a supervisor's practical knowledge.
Practical knowledge is constructed upon rules of practice, practical principles, and images. In this study, these forms revealed the dialectical nature of much of Ruth's practical knowledge. Two constructs or landscapes of imagery became apparent, one being the empowerment and power of teachers, and the other, bureaucratic power and control and educational stability. Analysis of Ruth's style as a supervisor examined further dialectical relationships, as she continuously resolved contraries while implementing fine arts curricula.
The findings suggest that among other requirements, supervisors need to develop a unique form of practical knowledge geared to the political context of curriculum implementation. Therefore, School Boards should consider tenure contracts for supervisors rather than limited term contracts, and should promote special training for supervisors in curriculum change strategies rather than assume that master teacher practical knowledge is sufficient.Education, Faculty of
Curriculum and Pedagogy (EDCP), Department of
Graduate
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Mgijima-Msindwana, Mirriam Miranda Nomso. "Implementing Educational Innovations: The case of the Secondary School Curriculum Diversification Programme in Lesotho." University of the Western Cape, 1991. http://hdl.handle.net/11394/8434.
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Philosophiae Doctor - PhDBetween 1974 and 1982 the MOE introduced in two phases the diversification programme [SSCDP] which sought to establish practical subjects in the secondary school curriculum. This study examines the sustainability of implementation efforts beyond project expiry. It was hypothesised that SSCDP is not working as originally intended. The broad research problem was framed thus: What implementation response arises from an open-ended innovation policy? Subsidiary questions are: 1. How far have the policy-makers communicated the meaning of SSCDP and what factors account for mismatches between policy intentions and innovation practice? 2. What is the response of Project schools and what factors explain variation in response? 3. What is their significance for the sustainability of SSCDP? The analysis draws key concepts from the innovation literature on models and strategies of planned change; relationships in the implementation hierarchy; determinants of and orientations to the implementation process. Centred around qualitative research methods, the investigation utilises data from project documents, semi-structured interviews and from observations during school visits. Findings show an overall low level of implementation that varies among project schools. This is attributed to: Poor interpretation of SSCDP goals; Deficiencies in the implementation management; Idiosyncratic school behaviours. The study concludes that the 'practitioner-policy-maker' discrepancy is significant, hence the gap between policy intents and innovation practice. The gap is not regarded so much as an ultimate failure of the programme but as a necessary condition that allows for mutual adaptation between the innovation and its setting. This is reflected in the varied patterns of implementation response, classified as the: faithful; negotiators; selective adaptors; expansionists; and reductionist. As a policy-oriented study aiming at providing an 'improvement value', the findings lead to a proposal of improvements in the strategies of managing change in three areas: shifting focus from an adoption to an implementation perspective. Recognising implementation as a process dependent on a mutual linkage relationship among participants. Recognising schools as important bearers of change. These three are crucial factors in the implementation-sustainability relationship.
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Mgijima-Msindwana, Mirriam Miranda Nomso. "Implementing educational innovations : the case study of the secondary curriculum diversification programme in Lesotho." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 1991. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/10018557/.
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Between 1974 and 1982 the MOE introduced in two phases the diversification programme [SSCDP] which sought to establish practical subjects in the secondary school curriculum. This study examines the sustainability of implementation efforts beyond project expiry. It was hypothesised that SSCDP is not working as originally intended. The broad research problem was framed thus: What implementation response arises from an open-ended innovation policy? Subsidiary questions are: 1. How far have the policy-makers communicated the meaning of SSCDP and what factors account for mismatches between policy intentions and innovation practice? 2. What is the response of Project schools and what factors explain variation in response? 3. What is their significance for the sustainability of SSCDP? The analysis draws key concepts from the innovation literature on models and strategies of planned change; relationships in the implementation hierarchy; determinants of and orientations to the implementation process. Centred around qualitative research methods, the investigation utilises data from project documents, semi-structured interviews and from observations during school visits. Findings show an overall low level of implementation that varies among project schools. This is attributed to: - Poor interpretation of SSCDP goals; - Deficiencies in the implementation management; Idiosyncratic school behaviours. The study concludes that the 'practitioner-policy-maker' discrepancy is significant, hence the gap between policy intents and innovation practice. The gap is not regarded so much as an ultimate failure of the programme but as a necessary condition that allows for mutual adaptation between the innovation and its setting. This is reflected in the varied patterns of implementation response, classified as the: faithful; negotiators; selective adaptors; expansionists; and reductionist. As a policy-oriented study aiming at providing an 'improvement value', the findings lead to a proposal of improvements in the strategies of managing change in three areas: shifting focus from an adoption to an implementation perspective. recognising implementation as a process dependent on a mutual linkage relationship among participants. recognising schools as important bearers of change. These three are crucial factors in the implementation-sustainability relationship.
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Schneiderheinze, Arthur. "Adoption as mediated action : how four teachers implemented an innovation cluster /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 2003. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p3091966.
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Dixon, Kathryn C. "Factors affecting the institutionalisation of career and vocational programs In Western Australian government secondary schools." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 1999. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1479.
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The aim of this study is to investigate the institutionalisation of career and vocational programs in Western Australian government secondary schools. Five specific objectives form the basis of the study. First, the study aims to determine the meanings which teachers construct for Career Education programs in schools. Second, the study examines the direct effects of personal construction of meaning, individual assimilation and organisational assimilation on the institutionalisation of Career Education. Third, the study determines the relationships between the personal construction of meaning, individual assimilation, organisational assimilation and institutionalisation of Career Education. Fourth, the study investigates the effectiveness of a causal model based on prior theoretical assumptions and factors identified by the sample and the literature as being influential in the institutionalisation of Career Education, using the method of path analysis. Fifth, the study develops an instrument to measure the institutionalisation of Career Education in secondary schools.
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Snyder, Kimberly S. "A Study Of Public School Employees' Adoption Behavior Regarding Technological Innovations." Wright State University / OhioLINK, 2012. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=wright1339185895.
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Wang, Tsu-Yin. "A study to identify the program elements for an elementary school technology teacher education program in Taiwan, R.O.C. /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 1999. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p9946308.
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McLaughlin, Louise A. "The influence of electronic mail on communication patterns among educators /." Thesis, McGill University, 2003. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=79790.
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In the late 1990s, the Ministere de l'Education du Quebec (MEQ) undertook a reform program that would reframe the educational system. Technology and pedagogy were seen as needing realignment to better meet a student-centered, technology-driven, lifelong learning experience. The New Reform as this new framework is known will be fully implemented by 2008 and educators are its pivotal agents. With Information and Communications Technologies being central to the new reform, this qualitative study looks at educator use of the most widely used Internet application, electronic mail. Very little research has looked at how pervasive electronic mail has become among educators and how it is affecting their multidirectional, multilayered roles as educators. Data originate from respondent electronic mail, a literature review, and the author's personal experience. Outcomes, reached through inductive analysis, reveal that educators continue to experience difficulty manipulating electronic mail technology even though they appreciate its multiple advantages. How electronic mail can facilitate networked communication and educator teamwork to better translate the MEQ's new reform successfully is the focus of this study. Implications derived from the outcomes are discussed in view of enhancing ongoing contributions by Quebec educators.
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Cohn, Cheryl Lynn McCarney Bernard J. "A meta-analysis of the effects of teaching innovations on achievement in college economics." Normal, Ill. Illinois State University, 1985. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/ilstu/fullcit?p8608948.
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Thesis (D.A.)--Illinois State University, 1985.Title from title page screen, viewed June 30, 2005. Dissertation Committee: Bernard McCarney (chair), Mathew Morey, Ronald Halinski, Alan Dillingham, Anthony Ostrosky. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 162-165) and abstract. Also available in print.
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Robertson, Michael James. "Using Diffusion of Innovations to Explore Digital Gaming in Undergraduate Library Instruction." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2009. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc11011/.
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Digital games and simulations are receiving considerable notice within the Library and Information Science (LIS) community. This study adds to the depth of knowledge in this area by providing research on the likelihood a hypothetical digital game delivery method for library instruction achieves sufficient adoption to justify its development. Furthermore, this knowledge will assist decision making processes for individuals debating the current or potential role of digital gaming at their institutions. In this mixed methods study, over 300 undergraduates were surveyed about their technology preferences, including digital gaming, for delivery of two forms of academic library instruction. The two forms of library instruction were (a) providing users with spatial information on physical library layout, and (b) educating users on information literacy topics and skills. Observational data was collected during the survey sessions, occurring at face-to-face library instruction sessions. Self-selected survey participants were also interviewed to further probe their survey responses. Rogers' Diffusion of Innovations was the theoretical foundation to this research. The primary innovation of study was the digital game delivery method. Detailed analysis of the survey-based data set included three nonparametric scaling methods: 1) rank-sum scaling; 2) circular triad analysis; and 3) multidimensional preference mapping. Content analysis of the observations and semi-structured interviews also occurred. Major outcomes were 1) the digital game delivery method achieved mediocre preference across both questions; 2) the audiovisual delivery method received the highest overall preference ranking; and 3) overall preference for the audio-only delivery method was remarkably low. The most important theme across the observational data was the participants' waning attention during the face-to-face library instruction sessions. The most important outcome from the semi-structured interviews was interviewees' stated appreciation for useful technologies. Over 95% of participants were so-called digital natives, that is, born post-1980. Rogers' assertion that age plays a minor role in predicting technology adoption appears warranted, since the more innovative digital game delivery method achieved mediocre overall preference.
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Adam, Ian Peter Stewart, and mikewood@deakin edu au. "An investigation of educator adoption of knowledge media." Deakin University, 1998. http://tux.lib.deakin.edu.au./adt-VDU/public/adt-VDU20051201.152331.
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Human development has occurred against a timeline that has seen the creation of and diffusion of one innovation after another. These innovations range from language to complex computing and information technologies. The latter are assisting with the distribution of information, and extend to the distribution of the human species beyond the planet Earth. From early times, information has been published and mostly for a fee to the publisher. The absorption and use of information has had a high priority in most societies from early times, and has become institutionalised in universities and institutes of technical learning. For most in Western societies, education is now a matter of lifelong learning.
Today, we see higher education institutions, worldwide, adapting their organisational structures and operating procedures and forming strategic alliances with communications content providers and carriers as well as with information technology companies. Modern educational institutes seek productivity and efficiency. Many also seek to differentiate themselves from competitors. Technological convergence is often seen by management to be a saviour in many educational organisations. It is hoped that lower capital and recurrent costs can be achieved, and that competitors in an increasingly globalised industry can be held at bay by strategic use of knowledge media (Eisenstadt, 1995) commonly associated with distance education in the campus setting. Knowledge media set up costs, intellectual property costs and training costs for staff and students are often so high as to make their use not viable for Australian institutes of higher education. Against this backdrop, one might expect greater educator and student use of publisher produced textbooks and digital enhancements to the textbook, particularly those involved in distance education.
A major issue is whether or not the timing of instructor adoption of converging information technology and communications technologies aligns with the wishes of both higher education management and government, and with those who seek commercial gain from the diffusion and adoption of such technologies. Also at issue is whether or not it is possible to explain variance in stated intentions to recommend adoption of new learning technologies in higher education and implementation. Will there occur educator recommendation for adoption of individual knowledge media such as World Wide Web access to study materials by students? And what will be the form of this tool and others used in higher education?
This thesis reports on more recent changes in the technological environment and seeks to contribute to an understanding of the factors that lead to a willingness, or unwillingness, on the part of higher education instructors, as influencers and content providers, to utilise these technologies. As such, it is a diffusion study which seeks to fill a gap in the literature. Diffusion studies typically focus on predicting adoption based on characteristics of the potential adopter. Few studies examine the relationship between characteristics of the innovation and adoption. Nearly all diffusion studies involve what is termed discontinuous innovation (Robertson, 1971). That is, the innovation involves adoptees in a major departure from previous practice. This study seeks to examine the relationship between previous experience of related technologies and adoption or rejection of dynamically continuous innovation. Continuous and dynamically continuous innovations are the most numerous in the real world, yet they are numerically the least scrutinised by way of academic research. Moreover, the three-year longitudinal study of educators in Australian and New Zealand meets important criteria laid down by researchers Tornatzky and Klein (1982) and Rogers (1995), that are often not met by similar studies. In particular the study examines diffusion as it is unfolding, rather than selectively examining a single innovation and after the fact, thus avoiding a possible pro-innovation bias.
The study examines the situation for both all educators and marketing / management educators alone in seeking to meet the following aim:
Establish if intended adopters of specific knowledge media have had more experience of other computer-based technologies than have those not intending to adopt said knowledge media.
The analytical phase entails use of factor analysis and discriminant analysis to conclude that it is possible to discriminate adopters of selected knowledge media based on previous use of related technologies. The study does not find any generalised factor that enables such discrimination among educators. Thus the study supports the literature in part, but fails to find generalised factors that enable unambiguous prediction of knowledge media adoption or otherwise among each grouping of educators examined. The implications are that even in the case of related products and services (continuous or dynamically continuous innovation), there is not statistical certainty that prior usage of related products or technologies is related to intentions to use knowledge media in the future. In this regard, the present study might be said to confirm the view that Rogers and Shoemaker's (1971) conceptualisation of perceived innovation characteristics may only apply to discontinuous innovations (Stratton, Lumpkin & Vitell, 1997).
The implications for stakeholders such as higher education management is that when seeking to appoint new educators or existing staff to knowledge media project teams, there is some support for the notion that those who already use World Wide Web based technologies are likely to take these technologies into teaching situations. The same claim cannot be made for computer software use in general, nor Internet use in general.
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Kshir, Mohamed A. M. "An evaluative survey of the role of inset in managing educational innovations in Libyan schools." Thesis, Durham University, 1999. http://etheses.dur.ac.uk/4395/.
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The exponential rate, and structural nature of, change in Libya - demographic, social, cultural, economic, political, infrastructural - have placed a massive strain on its education service to cope with these changes. Currently teachers in Libya are experiencing serious problems in meeting the human capital requirements of Libyan society. Curriculum initiatives are being introduced into Libya with an inadequate support base. As a result there are serious problems currently facing teachers in Libya. They are ill-equipped to cope with the current and prospective demands on education and its ability to service the changes in Libya. In particular the study suggests the need for hugely increased, carefully targeted and efficient in-service (INSET) provision. Through a comprehensive survey, the first to be undertaken in Libya, this thesis identifies the problems that teachers face in Libya, and outlines ways in which INSET can be provided and organised to meet these needs. This thesis 'maps the field' of problems, change and INSET in Libya. Recommendations are made to improve INSET in Libya and a model of person-centred change is provided that is based on a large-scale yet person-centred survey. Conclusions are drawn for change theory and practice that include considerable attention to needs analysis. Common problems and features of INSET are identified, that pattern themselves regardless of characteristics of the sample. The need for increased, differentiated, targeted and person-centred INSET is established, and implications are drawn for teachers, providers of INSET, nspectors and quality assurance. The study indicates how 'top-down' models of change can dovetail with 'bottom-up' models of change, and where INSET is located within these.
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Arfstrom, Kari M. "Recognizing, determining, and addressing entrepreneurial innovations by superintendents of emerging or established educational service agencies." Fairfax, VA : George Mason University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/1920/4599.
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Thesis (Ph.D.)--George Mason University, 2009.Vita: p. 164. Thesis director: Penelope Earley. Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Education. Title from PDF t.p. (viewed Oct. 11, 2009). Includes bibliographical references (p. 159-163). Also issued in print.
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Visis, Sanghirun Riegle Rodney P. "Administrator and teacher responses to legally mandated, learner-centered educational reform an examination of instructional dilemmas in a Thai private vocational school /." Normal, Ill. Illinois State University, 2002. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/ilstu/fullcit?p3064537.
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Thesis (Ph. D.)--Illinois State University, 2002.Title from title page screen, viewed January 26, 2006. Dissertation Committee: Rodney P. Riegle (chair), William Rau, Albert Azinger, George Padavil. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 153-156) and abstract. Also available in print.
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Dubkin-Lee, Shelley Irene. "Diffusion of innovation and the Oregon Small Schools Initiative /." view abstract or download file of text, 2006. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1192188671&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=11238&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
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Thesis (D. Ed.)--University of Oregon, 2006.Typescript. Includes vita and abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 146-152). Also available for download via the World Wide Web; free to University of Oregon users.
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Campbell, Bruce G. "Diffusion of Innovations of Videoconference Technology: An Instrumental Case Study Concerning Undergraduate Degree-Seeking Nontraditional Learners." Thesis, NSUWorks, 2015. https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_etd/5.
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This applied dissertation is an instrumental case study based on diffusion of innovations theory designed to gather student opinions regarding videoconference (VC) technology use in facilitating courses to undergraduate degree-seeking nursing students. The author of diffusion of innovations theory, Rogers (2003), recommended that more qualitative studies be conducted in education. Rogers and Jain (1968) recommended these studies should be conducted from the aspect of “receivers of innovation diffusion” (p.1) to provide feedback instrumental to implementation of technological innovations in academe. Further, Rogers stated that multiple data points should be used during the process of trialing an innovation. Therefore, a current VC course was selected from the nursing curriculum of a public state college hosting one of the largest nursing programs in the southeastern United States in which to conduct the study.
A total of 32 students participated divided equally between two sites: Main campus and Regional campus. Further divided, 22 personal interviews were conducted and two focus groups; one for each campus consisting 5 students each. Additionally, included in the data corpus were 40 hours of classroom observation plus, college provided end of course (EOC) summary statements. These data were triangulated to determine whether students would accept VC technology unchanged, accept with modifications, or reject VC technology based on first time exposure to the innovation during the 16-week semester. Student innovation decisions were: 6 students accepted unchanged, 14 students accepted with modifications, and 12 students rejected the innovation. Students who rejected the innovation were exclusively from the regional campus, which was the receiving site the majority of the semester.
First and second-cycle analyses yielded 67 codes resulting in 5 categories, which further developed into 3 emerging themes: (a) Interaction with instructors, materials, and distant students are key elements affecting adoption decisions of students regarding VC technology; (b) Student adoption decisions are influenced by faculty members in their use of VC technology; and (c) Student opinions indicate that reinvention is necessary for VC technology to be fully adopted into the present nursing program. The five categories: Interaction, equipment, teaching methodology, instructor technology training, and student orientation provided ample detail from which to inform practice regarding recommendations for reinvention (modification) of VC technology during the implementation stage of Rogers’ five stages of the innovation-decision model. These modifications could assist the college in gaining parity between the two nursing sites, which reported an 18.53 percentage point difference in first time pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam reported by the Florida Department of Health (Florida Health, 2015).
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Skelton, Beverly J. "The portfolio : an educational tool for instruction and assessment." Scholarly Commons, 1993. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/2247.
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The portfolio method for instruction and assessment is an alternative to less effective traditional teaching methods. The flexible structure allows educators to incorporate other innovative teaching methods, such as experiential and collaborative learning. It can improve students' critical thinking skills and writing ability. Portfolio assessment is equitable and accurate in measuring students' progress and recording their accomplishments.
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Mooi, Alicia Tenjiswa. "Effectiveness of ICT education in the Northern school area of Port Elizabeth." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1605.
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The use of information communication technology in the 21st Century is very important. The skills and knowledge of using these technologies should start at high school level, as it is at this stage where learners are equipped for tertiary education and the business world. This study seeks to answer how much ICT is used at the average school in Port Elizabeth and how effective such use is. South Africa is one of the countries in the whole world that is still behind in using the new technology. Learners from high school still enter university with no knowledge of how to use a computer. This becomes a problem in the world of technology as almost everything is done using technology. It also becomes a big problem when learners look for jobs in the business world. An active learning theory has been used on the study because, if learners can learn and have access computer at school, life will be easy for both learners and teachers, there would be co-operation and discussion and the fast way of doing school work. For the purpose of the study a qualitative research method has been used to ensure that answers are received straight from, teachers and learners for evidence. It is therefore clear that there are schools in South Africa that still needs the attention of the government in terms of getting access to computers and to have professional teachers for teaching the subject. The government has a responsibility of making sure that all learners and teachers in high schools have access to computers and internet. This will improve the working and learning conditions of both parties involved.
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Francis, Dannie Bruce. "The diffusion of technological innovations in the educational setting expectations, practices, and the role of personality /." Laramie, Wyo. : University of Wyoming, 2008. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1679679911&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=18949&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
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Rashotte, Angela L. "Resistance to technology integration in elementary teaching by the technologically proficient classroom teacher." Thesis, McGill University, 2004. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=83144.
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The Quebec Ministry of Education has implemented curriculum reforms that emphasize the integration of information technology into classroom teaching practices. Despite these efforts, however, many teachers appear to resist using computers in their classrooms. Some of these resistors are technologically literate! The purpose of this qualitative study is to better understand the reluctance of the technologically-literate teachers (with two to three years of experience) to integrate technology into their teaching practices.The six teachers participating in this study completed questionnaires and were individually interviewed using an open-ended approach. The data were then analyzed using the Constant Comparative Method. The results showed that although the participants were using computers in their classrooms, they were not actually integrating technology as stipulated by the curriculum reforms. This was attributed to a number of factors, including personal limitations, job stability, lack of resources and funds, time, training, and curriculum issues.
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Nussbaumer, Doris. "Induction of professional teachers and their constructivist practices with ICTs." Thesis, McGill University, 2008. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=116126.
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This study, through the lens of Activity Theory, focused on the induction and constructivist teaching practices of experienced teachers who were recently hired in a technologically advantaged middle school. Activity Theory was used not only to examine the induction practices but also to focus on constructivist practices with technology. Data sources consisted of using various instruments three of which were used for surveys, 11 interviews were employed to assess goals, and 18 classroom observations were carried out regarding constructivist practices. Findings through Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) analysis revealed under-realized forms of mediation to achieve effective use of ICTs (objective) and the perceptions of collaboration among the teaching staff, specifically with respect to relationships between rules and the division of labor. In effect, this study presents a challenge for CHAT analysis to elaborate the construct of contradictions to include "latent contradictions" which is essential to an expansive learning cycle.
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De, Silva Chamelle Rene. "Technology integration : tracing in-service primary teachers' technological, pedagogical and content knowledge development." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2374.
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Thesis (DEd (Education))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2015.The past decade has witnessed the proliferation and use of computer technologies or ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies) in varying levels in the traditional classroom within the South African context. The policy on e-Education (DoE, 2004) refers to the significance of e-Education and expects schools to be developed into e-Schools, consisting of a community of both teachers and learners. This policy also foregrounds how new models of learning are radically changing and challenging current conceptions of learning. As schools acquire technological infrastructure, teachers are expected to become technically skilled in order to deliver the curriculum utilising technology as a tool. Practising primary school teachers are generalists who subscribe to a more holistic approach of teaching. Specialised knowledge influences the in-service primary teacher's perceptions with regard to technology in the classroom. Technology integration,therefore, represents particular challenges for teachers as they search to construct a coherent, technological content base to inform their teaching. Learners with diverse ranges of learning abilities and needs are also present in classrooms, which may further compound the challenges teachers face within the confines of a rigid curriculum and emergent technologies. This study follows and documents the trajectory of a purposive sample of ten practising primary school teachers who had no specialised training in technology. A qualitative ethnographic research design, underpinned by an interpretive paradigm is employed. This research is premised on the argument that teachers can acquire the technical skill, underscored with the relevant pedagogical aims, needed for the seamless integration of emerging technologies required to enhance teaching and learning. "Without skilled pedagogical application of educational technology, technology in and of itself cannot provide innovative school practice and educational change" (Levin & Wadmany, 2006:158).
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Зайцева, Станіслава Станіславівна, Станислава Станиславовна Зайцева, and Stanislava Stanislavivna Zaitseva. "Вплив інновацій на розвиток вищого навчального закладу." Thesis, Класичний приватний університет, 2014. https://essuir.sumdu.edu.ua/handle/123456789/81169.
Full textAbstract:
Актуальність обраної теми зумовлена наростаючими тенденціями до інноваційної діяльності, зок-
рема в сфері освіти. Оскільки якість освіти є головним показником випуску висококваліфікованих фахівців
для ринку праці, діяльність ВНЗ має вдаватись до нових технологій навчання, до інновацій.
Мета роботи – з’ясувати сутність поняття освітніх інновацій та виявити чинники, які сприяють роз-
витку інноваційної діяльності ВНЗ.
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Einfalt, Lori Jayne Toole. "Brain-compatible instruction : a case study in district-wide staff development /." Access restricted to users with UT Austin EID Full text (PDF) from UMI/Dissertation Abstracts International, 2002. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/utexas/fullcit?p3077634.
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Mlangeni, Thandi Charmaine. "Analysis of data governance in higher education institutions : case of a university of technology in South Africa." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2418.
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Thesis (MTech (Information Technology))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2015.Organisations now invest in ICT solutions to drive business activities and provide the agility sought for competitive advantage. These may include government departments, higher-education institutions (universities) and commercial entities amongst other things. The challenges with regards to ICT and data management are equally applicable in universities as they do in business organisations. Universities have a growing ICT infrastructure used in everyday activities and online functionality, making them prone to data problems. This emerges from data that is used across various business processes which are dispersed among departments. In turn, a level of inefficiency finds its way with potential to generate inaccurate, missing, misinterpreted and poorly defined information. Higher education institutions are service providers and it is imperative to have reliable, timely and organised data to maintain the performance of the institution. They often experience data management challenges that ultimately affect the institution’s efficiency. These data management challenges arise from institutions not thoroughly dealing with data content, records management, quality, stewardship, governance and research data management. This study explored how data can be managed in higher education institutions using properly defined principles of data governance (DG) which will assist the institutions recognise and treat data as an organisational asset.
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Aheto, Simon-Peter Kafui. "Patterns of the use of technology by students in higher education." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2541.
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Thesis (DTech (Information Technology))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017.Rationale: Unavoidably, the 21st century is witnessing continuous discourse about students’ technology uses in higher education. This thesis explores the underpinnings of students’ technology usage in their rhizomatic (personal) learning networks in the higher educational environment through a lens of four sub-research questions and four research hypotheses. Methodology: This research adopted a cross-sectional narrative and numeric study using the Frameworks for an Integrated Methodology (FraIM). The study was conducted in four universities comprising two universities in Ghana, one in South Africa and another in Belgium. Participants and respondents included students and lecturers. Data collection methods comprise focus group interviews, individual interviews, surveys (paper and web-based) and rhizomatic maps. The philosophical underpinning was inclined towards the critical realists’ stance and hinged to Rhizome Theory and Actor Network Theory. Data were analysed through descriptive and multivariate analyses and learning analytics employing tools in social network analysis. Results were presented graphically via Rhizomatic Learning Network maps, charts, tables and narratives. Findings: Students’ personal learning networks exhibit traces of rhizomatic patterns which are related through human and non-human actors. Seven categories of actors – comprising 218 individual actors – were found in students’ Rhizomatic Learning Networks. Out of 19 traceable digital devices used by students, this research established differences among the institutions in the four most widely used digital devices: Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet or iPad, and E-Reader pro rata. Students owned, in this sequence, smartphones, laptops, tablets or iPads and e-readers. This research also found statistically significant differences among all four institutions in terms of students’ self-perceived importance of handheld mobile devices towards academic success, university wireless network experiences and satisfaction of Learning Management Systems in the universities. However, results indicated that students are not likely to skip classes when materials from course lectures are available online, implying an inclination towards a blended approach to learning despite a technologically-rich environment. Implications and Value: With an underlying effect on curriculum design and implementation, this thesis, supporting rhizomatic approaches to learning, has tremendous potential to improve personal learning networks in higher education. It further contributes an understanding of emerging patterns in the personal learning networks of higher education students within a technology-rich environment. Again, integration of the two theories – FraIM, analytical tools and style of presentation – in understanding the problem through the lens of a critical realist is novel. Key Recommendations: Further rhizoanalysis research into the detailed roles performed by individual technological actors in students’ personal learning networks in the higher educational environment is required. Additionally, clear policies exhibiting willingness and enforcement strategies to integrate technology in all facets relating to learning should guide curriculum development within the universities.