Information and communication technology integration in an international high school: the influence of leadership.

Abstract

Information and communication technology (ICT) integration in teaching and learning has become an imperative worldwide. However, this remains problematic due to various factors in different contexts. Often, the extent and success of ICT integration depends on the school leadership hence this study explored ICT integration in an international high school with a focus on the influence of leadership. A qualitative case study was done with 13 participants from one international high school. Data were generated through interviews and document analysis to understand how ICT integration was enacted, the leadership influence and why the school enacted ICT integration in the way it did. The qualitative data were analysed through open coding followed by axial coding to identify salient themes. The theories of technology organisation environment and transformational leadership were used as a lens to make sense of the findings. The results show that the school’s ICT vision and policy informed resource provision and integration in various sectors of the school life. ICT integration was a driver for active learning, information management and school communication. There was decentralisation of responsibilities, strategic ICT resourcing, and regular professional development activities to upskill staff. ICT integration was enacted in response to different stakeholder expectations and to sustain effectiveness and efficiency in school operations. Based on the findings of this study, a needs-based approach to ICT integration leadership is proposed. The needs stem from the curriculum, people, school functionality, and the educational context. Empirical research to test this approach is necessary to develop a better understanding of ICT integration leadership.