Framework and Methodology for The Exemplary Technology-Supported-Schooling Case Studies Project

New conceptual and methodological models are needed to cope with the changes that result from integration of information technology into education. The boundaries of the school are expanding as the virtual activities become more common. The curriculum evolves as the needs of students shift toward information handling and knowledge construction. And new policy issues are emerging. These rapid changes mean that qualitative methods are needed to identify key factors, uncover hidden meanings, and explore alternative conceptual models. The “Exemplary Technology-Supported-Schooling Case Studies” project exemplifies the need for exploration of new concepts and methods. A new conceptual framework for a study was designed for studying technology-supported instructional innovations in leading-edge schools. The methodology and selection of sites for the case studies is described in this report. Overall the approach exemplifies approaches that can be used to study sites successful in dealing with rapid changes due to technology.