Skip to main content
eScholarship
Open Access Publications from the University of California

UC San Diego

UC San Diego Electronic Theses and Dissertations bannerUC San Diego

Technology Integration in Design Thinking School: A Case Study of One 3rd Grade Teacher

Abstract

Compared with the pace of technological innovations of the world, the educational system remains static. Even with technology use in the classroom, there have not been many changes in the daily routines of teachers and students. While technology has been prevalent in the classroom for over a decade, implementing transformative use of these devices still remain a challenge. Recognizing the need for more research on how technology should be utilized in the classroom, one 3rd teacher at a design thinking school was examined through a qualitative single person case study using technology integration frameworks such as Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) model and Substitution, Modification, Redefinition, and Redefinition (SAMR) model. Findings from the study highlighted the need in more research on teachers fusing technology with 21st century skills in order to prepare students for the technologically advanced world. Teachers who embraced progressive pedagogy such as design thinking, project-based learning, blended learning, and personalized learning witnessed a glimpse of a paradigm shift in the field of education using technology. This study found that in order to transform student learning experience with technology, the curriculum needs to be grounded in preparing students with the 21st century skills. Additionally, the results also determined that technology mandating at the district level is ineffective because a traditional district will not impose innovative use of technology in the classroom. The technological knowledge needs to be distributed across different people who play a role in student’s education such as school leaders, teachers, parents, and community members. The study concludes with the contributions to implications for policy, practice, and future research.

Main Content
For improved accessibility of PDF content, download the file to your device.
Current View