Share Paper: Information Technology Personnel’s Perceptions of Barriers to Technology Implementation in Rural Schools

1. Jason Beach, Tennessee Technological University, United States
2. Hannah Webster, White County Schools, United States

Abstract: This study sought to discover what barriers exist in equipping schools with technology, especially within school systems classified as rural and low-income. In this interpretive case study, the researcher interviewed directors of technology, observed classrooms, and examined policies and procedures of rural, low-income systems in order to understand the barriers to the implementation of new technologies within the classroom. Data came from interviews with IT directors and personnel, classroom observations, and policy analysis. The data showed that while policy had some effect on technology integration, the major barriers to technology integration were lack of equipment, lack of personnel, and lack ...