EdTech Decision Makers in Higher Education: Consumers or Producers of Research?

• In Event: Poster Session 14
  In Poster Session: Perspectives on Research Use in Education

Abstract

We conducted a qualitative study to investigate the role of research in decisions about acquiring and using educational technology for teaching and learning in higher education. While research use in K-12 decision-making has been well documented, little has been done to understand this issue in higher education and specifically for educational technology. Results from 45 interviews show that decision-makers’ definitions of “research” vary widely. They engage in different types of research activities at different points in the decision-making process. Barriers to using research included time constraints and lack of relevant studies. To obtain more locally-relevant evidence, many choose not to use externally-produced research, but instead conduct their own investigations on EdTech products and strategies to inform their decisions.

Authors

• Fiona M. Hollands, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Maya M Escueta, Columbia University