Rural Educators in the 21st Century: Using Evidence-Based Practices With Communication Technologies

• In Event: Poster Session 16
  In Poster Session: Division C Section 7 Technology Research Poster Session

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the progress of Project DIRECT (Distance Innovations for Rural Educators using Communication Technologies), report the findings of what has occurred over the last year and identify how the three components within the theoretical framework were executed. Project DIRECT is a professional development program that has provided opportunities for educators in rural schools to participate in an intensive and personalized program using evidence-based practices to improve curriculum with communication technologies. Through open-ended interviews, participant observation and screen casting, there are strong indicators that by utilizing professional development, reading and writing digital text and using social networks/ virtual environments, physical space is no longer a barrier for connecting and supporting rural school educators.

Authors

• Alina Padilla-Miller, University of Oregon

• Lynne Anderson-Inman, University of Oregon