Date of Award

12-1993

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Jim Bums

Second Advisor

Dr. Pat Jenlink

Third Advisor

Dr. Uldis Smidchens

Abstract

Technology that enhances communication through the use of digitized media abounds. Yet, there is a perception that education does not use technology's full potential to communicate with its audience. This dissertation demonstrates that a technological solution can communicate relevant educational information. Extensive documentation provides a high level departure point for subsequent technology enhanced communication projects.

The planning team for the Applied Technology Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan, wanted an application to express the center's name-implied mission. This opportunity was fulfilled by the development of a point-of-information kiosk application, the dissertation's focal point. Methodology included using project management software to identify and track milestones and tasks; a concentrated effort to communicate with all participants as a way of garnering support, encouraging team play, and jointly resolving problems; integrating training and personnel resource needs into the academic curricula; and focusing on continuous formative evaluation and information annealing to offset inappropriate ego involvement.

The point-of-information kiosk application was developed and has operated virtually 24 hours a day, 7 days a week since start-up. Considerable time and financial resources were expended to accomplish the application. The tribulations of working with leading edge technology were experienced. Accomplishing the application truly was a team effort with the contribution of graphical screen images by community college seminar students being a highlight. Because technology, information, experiences and thinking are constantly changing, a systems approach to a point-of-information application should be incorporated. The process of information annealing extends beyond getting the application operable.

The reader is encouraged to use technology that integrates media to communicate educational information. Educators should give consideration to providing businesslike, learning environments where students and staff work side-by-side to create technology-enhanced communication products. A network of touch screen, information kiosks that use digitized media should be explored as should the development of a standardized user interface to facilitate ease of use from application to application. Well-developed technology-enhanced communications have a role in world improvement. The educational community should be a leader in this endeavor.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

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