Day, V. (2017). Understanding the relationship between K-12 teachers’ perceptions of their levels of teaching innovation and their experiences with technology-driven professional development (Doctoral dissertation). Available from ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. (UMI No. 10285248)

Abstract:

“Students today are expected to develop real-world thinking and digital literacy skills to succeed in a globally connected and technology-infused world. Accordingly, teachers are tasked with implementing innovative levels of teaching to meet the needs of today’s digital learners. As technology becomes increasingly ubiquitous and accessible in K-12 schools, learning will continue to take place in digital spaces. However, current research suggests that teachers lack the technological proficiencies required to develop the engaging and innovative classroom experiences that students crave. Despite significant investments in professional development in K-12 schools, many teachers are failing to effectively transfer learning from these experiences into innovative levels of teaching.

A rapid influx of technology into K-12 schools presents significant potential for educators to leverage digital resources to pursue professional development opportunities that are relevant to their practice—in any place, at any time. However, it is unclear how teachers’ use of innovative, technology-driven pedagogy in their classrooms relates to their perceptions and experiences with technology-driven professional development. The purpose of this study was to examine K-12 teachers’ perceptions and experiences with technology-driven professional development and how they relate to their level of innovative teaching. To shed light on the research problem, this mixed-methods study sought to answer the following research questions:

1. What are K-12 teachers’ LoTi based on the Levels of Teaching Innovation Digital Age Survey for Teachers? 2. How do K-12 teachers with varying LoTi describe their experiences with technology-driven professional development? Why do teachers choose to participate in professional development? How do teachers feel about technology-driven professional development? Who participates in technology-driven professional development? How is teachers’ participation in technology-driven professional development related to their LoTi? 

This study utilized both the LoTi Digital Age Survey for Teachers to gather quantitative data on teachers’ levels of innovative teaching and a qualitative component consisting of semi-structured interviews. Analysis of the quantitative component resulted in a descriptive analysis in the form of categorical variables pertaining to teachers’ levels of teaching innovation to explain outcome variance. The qualitative component sought to develop an understanding of K-12 teachers’ perceptions and lived experiences with technology, professional development, and levels of teaching innovation. The themes and subthemes that emerged from this study are grouped into two primary categories: (1) Teaching and Learning with Technology, and (2) Professional Development. Furthermore, answers to the study’s research questions are interwoven into a discussion based on reached conclusions. Finally, based on the study’s results and conclusions, along with current research in K-12 education, recommendations are made for improving professional development practices toward elevated levels of innovative teaching.”