PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: CHANGING PERCEPTION AND ATTITUDES ABOUT USING TECHNOLOGY

This presentation will describe the emotional journey faculty often encounter when introducing and integrating technology in professional development initiatives. Kübler-Ross (1970) describes five stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance), often applicable to the changes faculty undergo in transforming their instructional processes to technology related applications. Changes in perception and attitudes about technology including the cognitive transition to acceptance will be examined based upon National University’s School of Education professional development initiatives.
Professional Development:

Van Schoor (2003) states that change is a “fact of life”, but that human nature will resist it. We are creatures of habit. We prefer the security of familiar surroundings and often do not react well to changes in our environment, even when the changes are positive. This is true for faculty who are being asked to incorporate new technologies into their teaching practices. Changes in instructional practices often trigger fear and apprehension, which are deeply rooted in the human psyche. Insufficient information about the impending change and its sought-after benefits are likely to cause considerable distress among those affected by the change.