Perceptions of School Leaders for One-to-One Device Implementation in K-5 Elementary Schools in One Division in Virginia

New initiatives involving the use and implementation of technology are being put into place in many school systems across the country to help students acquire needed 21st century skills (Grady, 2011). The purpose of this study of the implementation of one-to-one devices was to examine school leaders' perceptions of changes in their leadership practices, teachers' instructional practices, and student engagement. A member of the central office staff and five elementary principals were asked to provide perceptions on the implementation process with their staff. School leaders also provided perceptions on how teachers were led to facilitate instruction while using devices.

This study consisted of an interview with five elementary principals as well as a member of the central office staff who oversaw implementation. The school leaders' individual interview responses were analyzed and the data, based on their perspectives, were examined.

The results of this study indicated that student collaboration, student-centered learning, diverse learning needs of students, and students' familiarity with technology were factors that influence students in a one-to-one device environment. Finding the right digital tool, instructional planning, teacher as facilitator, professional development, and parallel modeling and learning on behalf of the principal to all be important factors to consider for one-to-one device implementation. The results may influence the implementation of one-to-one technology programs for this and other school divisions as well as school leaders.