An investigation of factors influencing the use of computer technology by middle school principals

Robin Diane Brown, Fayetteville State University

Abstract

Technology plays an important role in the restructuring of education. However, there is continued disillusionment in the educational community regarding the effective use of computer technology. Factors are identified and noted in related literature as contributors to the ineffective use of computer technology. As the presence of technology continues to increase in the education, it is important for educational leaders and administrators to recognize the significance of their role in technology implementation and utilization. Educational Leaders should be effective role models and have a clear vision of the possibilities technology can provide. This study was guided by the following research questions: (a) What types of tasks do middle school principals most use computer technology to complete? (b) Are there differences in the use of computer technology by middle school principals based upon the format of computer technology training received by middle school principals? (c) Are there differences in the use of computer technology by middle school principals based upon age, gender, or years of experience as educational administrators? (d) Are there differences in the use of computer technology by middle school principals based upon computer technology availability? Data were obtained from a research sample of 66 middle school principals from ten counties located in the southeastern portion of North Carolina. The Principal's Use of Computer Technology survey questionnaire developed by Dr. Jack Dibee, served as the research instrument. Additional data collected by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction were used to determine computer technology availability at each school. Data were analyzed using various statistical methods. Means for responses to individual items and grouped areas were used to illustrate comparisons of tasks and demographics. Analyses of data revealed that middle school principals used technology more for communications tasks like electronic correspondence and less for instructional leadership tasks, such as locating curriculum or staff development resources. Data analyses also indicated differences in the use of computer technology by middle school principals and computer technology availability related to management, communications and instructional leadership tasks.

Subject Area

School administration|Teacher education|Educational software

Recommended Citation

Brown, Robin Diane, "An investigation of factors influencing the use of computer technology by middle school principals" (2001). ETD Collection for Fayetteville State University. AAI3027004.
https://digitalcommons.uncfsu.edu/dissertations/AAI3027004

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