In the West there has been a substantial quantity of scholarly work about the integration of learning technologies at tertiary institutions and these works have at times been assigned a noteworthy role in governmental policy development. Although generalised statements have been made on the need for the effective integration of learning technology at national institutions of higher education situated in the Middle East, the issues surrounding the practical adoption of such technology are often more varied and complex than is usually supposed. Indeed, no substantive discussion of the subject has yet been undertaken for an institution situated within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Yet, there is a clear need for such an analysis which has the potential to influence government policy in the UAE, thereby improving teaching and learning at a time of dramatic political change. The purpose of this study is to evaluate, through detailed investigation, the factors associated with the integration of learning technologies as they relate to the teaching and learning environment of Zayed University (the University). It examines the background of the University and the role technology plays within its curriculum, placing it within the unique political, social, and religious contexts of the UAE. In particular, what are the critical issues involved in the effective integration of technology into such a culturally distinctive higher education environment? An answer to this question involves exploring: (i) the role of technology as expressed in the University's visions and goals; (ii) the outcomes-based curriculum model and the role technology plays in supporting it through an electronic portfolio (ePortfolio) model; and (iii) the level of technology integration within the professional practice of Faculty. Instrumental to the findings of this research is the researcher's design and implementation strategy for a technology integration portfolio (TIP) model. In sum, this thesis presents information, implications and recommendations obtained from an evaluation of the current practices relating to the integration of learning technology into the University curriculum. It is from this information that a clear picture emerges of the present role of technology, at the same time providing possible directions for the next stage of the University's evolution. Indeed, this work responds in a practical way to the possibilities and problems involved in the formulation, implementation and efficient working of further learning technology initiatives at the University. Moreover, the findings of this thesis could also be transferred to other higher educational settings in the UAE that share similar curriculum models and goals for technology integration.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/195603 |
| Date | January 2005 |
| Creators | Young, Bradley J, n/a |
| Publisher | Griffith University. School of Education and Professional Studies |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Rights | http://www.gu.edu.au/disclaimer.html), Copyright Bradley J Young |
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