Analysis of Communication among Teachers about the Use of ICT

Abstract

The purpose of this case study is to clarify the characteristics of communication about the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) among teachers by analyzing elementary schools where document cameras and computers are used on a daily basis. The results of interviews are depicted in a diagram called a “communication flow” regarding teachers who sought information or advice, and teachers whose information or advice was sought by other teachers. There was a tendency for less experienced teachers, and those who were slow to begin document cameras and computers use, to ask for information from more experienced teachers who had adopted the use of document cameras and computers earlier. In addition, the presence of two teachers as advisors was revealed. In the surveyed school, almost every teacher is embedded in the school-wide communication network headed by these two teachers, and it became clear that this is a perfect environment for getting information and advice about not only the use of ICT for teaching but technical details of document cameras and computers.