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Description
This qualitative case study examines organizational change within two school districts that utilized a structured framework, Education Technology Architecture, to conduct an organization-wide technology reform. One district educates students from grades K-8 and the other K-12. As a consultant for the two case school districts under study, the researcher conducted the investigation as a participant observer. This qualitative research on two Pacific Southwest school districts applied a comparative case study design. Within the comparative case study design, an interview-based Critical Incident Technique (CIT) was utilized. The CIT outlines procedures for collecting observed incidents having special significance and meeting systematically defined criteria. Through the lens of these critical incidents, participants revealed their expectations, perceived participation, and evaluation of the technology reform. Methodology included field observations, focus group interviews, critical incident interviews, and document analysis. Study findings support a growing body of research that connects structured technology reform with organizational goal attainment. Findings reveal that the school districts under study leveraged technology to improve student achievement opportunities, reduce costs, and improve collaboration amongst stakeholders. Four main conclusions are drawn from this study. Technology implementation entails a combination of obstacles that must be addressed to promote successful district-wide reform, including (a) technical challenges; (b) staffing; (c) personal reluctance; and (d) professional development. Second, district-wide technology reform moves through a multi-phase process. In this study, the stakeholders needed time and participatory opportunities to gain understanding of the technology and associated processes. Third, stakeholders benefit when learning resources, tools, and applications are available to them at any time and from anywhere. Finally, clear communication, involving multiple stakeholder groups, helps to ensure successful technology reform. Study findings advance understanding of how school districts leverage a structured technology framework to achieve organizational goals. These findings inform district leaders' decisions regarding educational technology planning and implementation.
