Striving Towards an Understanding of Experienced Teachers’ Perceptions of the Usefulness, Ease of Use and Effective Integration of Technology in their Classroom

Abstract

This thesis uses Narrative Theory and Technology Acceptance Model to uncover the experiences, perceptions, and challenges that five experienced teachers face when using and integrating technology in their classroom. It gives narrative consideration of the value of unique experience by focusing on the stories of each participant, and it analyzes narrative themes. This study found that there were numerous impacts on teachers’ perceptions on the usefulness and ease of use of technology: this included (a) Limits: technology limits, teacher limits, student limits, and practical limits; (b) Support: school board, resources, equipment, parents; and (c) Dynamic environment (teacher-student feedback loop) which influence strategies for integrating technology: attitude, teaching orientation, classroom management, technology management, technology tools, and participant-observer strategies. Study limitations and recommendations are discussed.