Investigating Teachers’ Expectations For Using.doc

Investigating Teachers’ Expectations For Using Telecollaborative Project Work by Barry S. Kramer Presented to the Graduate and Research Committee of Lehigh University in Candidacy for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy In Learning Science and Technology Lehigh University May 15, 2009  Copyright by Barry S. Kramer May 15, 2009 Approved and recommended for acceptance as a dissertation in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. __________________________ Date __________________________ Dissertation Advisor __________________________ Accepted Date Committee Members: __________________________ Judith A. Duffield __________________________ M. J. Bishop __________________________ Amanda Kloo __________________________ Margaret Riel Acknowledgements In 1988, I first became aware of the work of Dr. Margaret Riel and the Learning Circles project. My initial participation in Learning Circles completely changed my educational career, the way I viewed instruction, and the possibilities that technology could provide to educate children. It was also Dr. Riel who encouraged and supported me to pursue a higher degree and become serious with my interest in telecollaborative project work. I can truly say that I value every conversation, idea, suggestion, and words of encouragement she has ever provided me. It is because of her belief in me that I have arrived at this point. It is to her that I dedicate this work. I have worked with Dr. Judy Duffield, the chair of my study, for the past three years. She has shown patience, understanding, and a willingness to always listen when I needed it. She always kept me on course and helped me to complete this research in a way that allowed the story to emerge. I am indebted to her for her leadership and guidance. I am also indebted to my committee members – Dr. M. J. Bishop and Dr. Amanda Kloo who continually provided me with guidance, insightful comments, honesty, enc