Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to describe the experience of researcher constructed,
Working on the Work (WOW)-technology training with a group of teachers
previously trained in basic WOW lesson design, as they designed, developed, and
implemented exemplary technology-infused WOW-designed lessons through collegial
conversations. After receiving training about integrating technology into the design
qualities in Philip Schlechty's WOW framework (2002) through a PowerPoint
presentation, teachers designed lesson plans through multiple collegial conversations.
The action research project included nine middle school teachers and one assistant
principal over a four-week time span.
This qualitative study included participant annotation of instructional materials,
group interview, observation of collegial conversations, product review of lesson plans,
development of a portfolio of engaging lesson plans, and a post-intervention focus group.
Each participant selected and taught a collegially designed lesson. Findings suggest that
technology can be integrated into the design qualities of the WOW framework and that
the participants agreed with the researcher's methods of the training. The research also
suggests that the participants had a positive experience of designing and implementing
quality, engaging lesson plan through collegial conversations. The majority of design
qualities were used in developing and implementing engaging lessons that incorporated
technology in some manner.
The results of the study were communicated to the learning community through a
PowerPoint presentation. Feedback supported continuation of implementing technology
into the WOW framework and fostering collegial conversations among teachers.