Does technology integration “work” when key barriers are removed?

The effectiveness of Tennessee EdTech Launch (TnETL), a statewide technology program designed to meet the NCLB mandate was investigated in this mixed-methods study. The goal of the program was to provide full-time, on-site technology coaches to prepare teachers to create lessons that engage students in critical thinking and use of computers as tools in order to increase learning. The study examined TnETL impact on student achievement, teachers ’ skills and attitudes toward technology integration; use of research-based practices; and students ’ skills in using technology as a tool. The study was implemented as “Launch ” 1 and 2 cohorts that collectively involved 54 schools, 28,735 students and 1,746 teachers. Program effectiveness was measured via direct classroom observations, surveys, student performance assessments, focus groups, and student achievement analysis. A matched treatment-control quasi-experimental mixed-methods research design was used for Launch 1, while a randomized control trial was used for Launch-2. Survey results showed that program teachers had significantly higher confidence to integrate technology and in using technology for learning. Observation results revealed that program as compared to control students more frequently used computers as tools, worked in centers, and engaged in research and project-based learning. Although the TnETL program demonstrated progress in changing school culture to benefit students through the use of technology, student gains on high-stakes tests were mixed. The implications of the results are discussed relative to implementation successes and barriers, sustainability prospects, and the observed impacts of technology integration on teaching and student learning.