Mutual Support Between Learning Community Development and Technology Integration: Impact on School Practices and Student Achievement

Abstract

Traditional schools are notorious for being isolated, inflexible, and reluctant to change. This lack of professional dialogue among educators remains a significant barrier to successful school improvement, resulting in teachers' practices becoming stagnant and student achievement suffering. The K20 Center for Educational and Community Renewal at the University of Oklahoma addresses this barrier through research and professional development focused on teaching and learning innovations. Knowledge gained from these research activities is transferred to network schools through professional development for K–12 teachers, principals, superintendents, and other key stakeholders. This article describes the K20 Center's research-based systemic change model, which moves beyond a conceptual framework to actually improving teacher quality and student success.

Notes

1. This research was supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Oklahoma Educational Technology Trust. The Trust equips Oklahoma common school students with the technology and technological skills necessary to compete in the global marketplace. The Trust provides funds for computer and telecommunications equipment, infrastructure, leadership, and professional development to implement and advance integration of technology into classroom instruction. AT&T Oklahoma provided $30 million in initial funding for the Trust in 2001. The Oklahoma Educational Technology Trust has funded over $1.6 million to provide laptop computers and professional development for Oklahoma school superintendents and administrators participating in Phase I leadership training provided by Oklahoma Achievement through Collaboration and Technology Support. Oklahoma Educational Technology Trust's 10-year (2002–2012), $13.5 million Phase II grant initiative provides individual school site and/or district competitive grants. Oklahoma Educational Technology Trust is administered by Communities Foundation of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Achievement. Opinions reflect those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the granting agencies.