Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine if teachers could be grouped by their stage of concern (SoC) regarding technology. This study examined if there was a difference between groups of teachers with regard to their stage of concern (SoC). It also examined what teachers describe to be effective staff development. Further the study examined teacher perceptions regarding the need for staff development in selected areas. This study examined differences that might exist as a result of gender; age; grade level assignment; and number of years using technology. Methodology. A survey was given to all teachers of the selected 15 10 technology schools in CTAP Region VI. 215 of 291 classroom teachers returned their questionnaires for a 74 percent return. Data were analyzed through the use of descriptive statistics. The Pearson Product-Moment Correlation, Two-Tailed Independent T, Cross tabulations, and non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis represent the types of analysis used. Findings and conclusions. Five of the eight Stages of Concern as originally described by Jean Buddington Martin (1989) were confirmed by Carol Steinlage Bly (1993) and reconfirmed by this researcher. Some of the significant differences among schools have narrowed because of the increase of technology in the schools. Availability of technology and the involvement of teachers will continue to be important in planning effective staff development. Recommendations. The recommendations as presented in the Bly study are still valid. Implementing pre and post-testing as part of any staff development plan as well as providing for staff review of all staff development is important. An effort should be made to provide for formative and summary evaluation and feedback. A realistic timeline for implementation should be used. It is also important to provide opportunities to modify training. Access to technology should be available both at school and at home with appropriate support personnel available. It is necessary to view change as a process not an event. Likewise, it is important to provide adequate resources for institutionalizing change over time. All stakeholders need to be involved in the process.