Home PublicationsJRTEPast IssuesVolume 39 Number 1: Fall 2006

	Edited by Dr. Lynne Schrum, George Mason University
formerly Journal of Research on Computing in Education

Volume 39 Number 1 Fall 2006

Using Rogers’ Theory to Interpret Instructional Computer Use by COE Faculty

Ismail Sahin
Selcuk University, Turkey
Ann Thompson
Iowa State University

Abstract

The purpose of this research study was to develop a theory-based methodology for exploring instructional computer use by faculty members in one College of Education (COE) and implementing this methodology at an Anatolian university in Turkey. Rogers’ (2003) Diffusion of Innovations theory was used as the theoretical framework in the process of instrument development, data collection, and in the interpretation of the results. The faculty members in the study reported low levels of use and expertise in instructional computer technologies.Variables significantly correlated with faculty members’ level of computer use were computer expertise, computer access, barriers to computer access, attitude toward computer use, support for computer use, and adopter categories based on innovativeness. The importance of administrative support and the need for faculty development were two major findings from this study. The results from the qualitative data provided information on addressing barriers to faculty computer use and confirmed the characteristics of Rogers’ adopter categories. Findings interpreted through Rogers’ theory suggest that an action plan should take advantage of faculty members’ positive computer attitudes and collegial communication to help them move to the higher levels of use and expertise in instructional technologies. Methodology used in this study provides a model for other colleges of education worldwide to obtain information aboutthe needs of their faculty members.

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Contributors

Ismail Sahin is an assistant professor in the Department of Computer and Instructional Technologies at Selcuk University in Turkey.

Ann Thompson is a university professor at Iowa State University, Ames in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, College of Human Sciences.

Contact

Ismail Sahin
Department of Computer and Instructional Technologies
College of Education
Selcuk University
Meram, Konya, Turkey
isahin@selcuk.edu.tr

Ann Thompson
Department of Curriculum and Instruction
College of Human Sciences
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
eat@iastate.edu

Copyright 2006, (International Society for Technology in Education). All rights reserved.