| The purpose of this study was to explore counselor educators' experiences using computer technology in counselor education programs. Understanding these experiences could enhance counselor educators' instructional teaching methods in preparing doctoral students.;In this study, grounded theory procedures were utilized to develop a theoretical conceptualization of counselor educators' experiences with computer technology in preparing doctoral students. Three rounds of interviews were conducted with six counselor educators who taught in counselor education programs accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) across the United States. The interview data were transcribed and analyzed for emerging concepts, themes and patterns.;Results from this investigation illuminated what counselor educators experienced in terms of computer technological integration, adaptation to computer technology, as well as their perceptions of critical issues regarding the use of computer technology in counselor education programs. Theoretical conceptualizations regarding these concepts emerged as a result of the data collection and analysis and served as a description of how counselor educators used computer technology in preparing doctoral students.;The findings from this study indicated that counselor educators believed the integration of computer technology in counselor education programs was vital in preparing doctoral students and technology provided new ways of teaching. The findings also indicated that counselor educators felt readily prepared for the advances and impact of technology in counselor education. The participants attended computer training seminars or workshops to increase their technological competency skills. Additionally, results from this study indicated that counselor educators believed privacy, ethical and legal issues, face-to-face meetings, technology in supervision, safety, security, confidentiality, abuse, and wireless communication through the Internet were critical issues that are having an impact on the use of technology in counselor education programs.;Technology plays an increasing role in counselor education training programs. Findings generated from this investigation produced important information for counselor educators to consider regarding the use of computer technology in counselor education programs and the counseling profession. As a result, findings from this study may significantly increase the use of technology in the counselor education teaching curriculum. |
