Computing as Educational Innovation: a model of distributed expertise

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The introduction of innovation to a school doesn't just happen. Often it is the work of an interested and dedicated teacher. Such teachers are often frustrated in their efforts to change the curriculum because they lack both the leadership skills necessary for substantial change and an understanding of how innovation effects and spreads in an organization. School principals, in their position as curriculum leaders, should play a crucial role in bringing innovation to the classroom. Many, however, play an encouraging but less active role, supporting teachers’ efforts to change the curriculum. While this type of leadership has been sufficient in the past, the introduction of computer technology as an integral part of the instructional program requires active leadership because of its multifaceted nature and intense budgetary requirements. This paper suggests a model of school administration wherein already overburdened school administrators can share leadership in a meaningful way with interested teachers. It also presents a model for the diffusion of innovation by such leadership teams. The paper argues that innovation does not just happen; meaningful change requires both strong leadership and deep understanding of the politics of innovation. This is particularly true for the introduction of computers to schools because of the magnitude of the change required.

This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit: