A strategy development framework for educational technology

Abstract

Emerging technologies are transforming educational practices, but their successful integration requires improving the quality and efficiency of learning. New technology emerges in hype cycles, but adoption and performance lag over time. A strategic framework is required for decision-makers to understand the complex interaction of all the factors to consider when making new technology investments. This research explores how strategy development occurs through the dynamic interaction of strategy with learning, and technology integration. It analyses the key elements of a strategy map for learning with technology and how these elements influence each other within the overall strategy map. The research design integrated the different cycles of Design Science Research (DSR) with a modified Delphi technique in two research phases. During the first phase of research, Delphi panel members were interviewed to understand current challenges and practices in terms of learning with technology. The results of the literature review and thematic data analysis from the interviews were used to create a strategy development framework, as an artefact, as part of the DSR process. This framework was shared with Delphi members in the second phase of research, and they were requested to evaluate the framework for its fit and utility in similar contexts of learning with technology. This study contributes a strategy development framework for educational technology, which enhances theories around the analytical and conceptual processes when planning and implementing new emerging technologies in learning. Other key outcomes of the study include a hypothetical strategy map for learning with technology that can be applied in a dynamic context, and the identification of current focus areas for operational excellence in learning with technology.