Date of Award
1-1-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D. in Education
First Advisor
Dennis Bunch
Second Advisor
Jill Cabrera
Third Advisor
Sara Platt
School
University of Mississippi
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
In response to COVID-19, the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) invested approximately $295 million to support digital learning efforts. This investment, referred to as the Mississippi Connects Initiative, funded state level infrastructure improvement, bulk device purchasing, digital subscription purchasing, telehealth and teletherapy resources, and professional learning for educators. Focusing on professional learning, this study aimed to determine if differences existed between schools that did and did not receive professional learning via the digital learning coaching program.
The data used in this study was collected in the spring of the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 school years, using the BrightBytes® Technology and Learning (T&L) Solution. Scores were examined to analyze differences in classroom practices, technological skills, and school environment, attitudes, and perceptions between groups of coached and non-coached elementary and secondary schools. Group scores on state accountability measures were also compared. Limitations of this study included survey participation, group analysis, and self-reporting. Other themes include the fiscal implications of professional learning, digital equity, instructional coaching, and program evaluation. These findings indicate the need for state and local education agencies to more consistently monitor and evaluate spending.
Recommended Citation
Brown, Elise, "A Case for Digital Coaches" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2922.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/2922