Leadership role and professional development of technology

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has indeed driven educational technology to the next higher level, especially in faculty teaching and research. There is an increasing need for faculty to embrace new technology, especially with the emergence of new normal in both teaching, learning, and research. To become conversant with the technologies, educators need opportunities for professional development. And to continue to be involved with new and evolving technologies in education, faculty members seek leadership and support. This study was carried out to investigate the leadership role in the professional development of technology in the educational delivery system of Nigerian universities. The study adopted a qualitative approach. This qualitative study randomly selected a convenience sample of 100 faculty and administrators in the faculty of education of 12 universities in Nigeria. Using focus-group discussion sessions, interviews, the researchers met with 100 participants in groups of 10 to 15 each session. Data were transcribed and entered into a database for analysis. The leadership role of faculty members, technology specialists, policy, support, and infrastructure were discussed. The study shows that to help faculty members lead the way in investigating, integrating, and evaluating technologies, faculty members need policies and leadership support, equitable access to technology, support, professional development, and recognition.