| The primary purpose of this research was to explore the influence of electronic collaboration software on school based management for teachers at Scott Lane Elementary School. Scott Lane implemented the use of Internet discussion as a part of their school based management system. School based management is a central component of the 1000 Days to Success program. This study, examining electronic collaboration, and the companion study, examining the effectiveness of the 1000 Days program shared a common conceptual framework and together provide a holistic understanding of Scott Lane School's approach to effective school reform.;This study focused on four questions: (1) How did the use of electronic collaboration enhance professional discussion? (2) How did the implementation of electronic collaboration align with educational change theory models? (3) What were the implications and ramifications for teachers regarding their adjunct duty time? (4) What was the teachers' perceived value of the time spent using electronic collaboration as an enhancement to school based management?;Multiple strategies for collecting information were employed including review of electronic communication transcripts, review of organizational documents, and interviews with both teachers and classified staff members. These data collection strategies provided a rich, detailed description of the school's process of school management as electronic collaboration tools were integrated into the school management process.;Findings indicated that electronic collaboration did improve school communication by increasing awareness of events, activities, and professional issues. Most of the message postings were only superficially related to professional practice. However, most of the postings were rated as highly interactive and a part of a multi-posting exchange. A small percentage (14%) of posted messages indicated that teachers did use electronic collaboration as a tool for professional discussion.;Findings suggested that the implementation process followed three important themes found in educational change models: change lessons, organizational innovation, and leadership.;There was no data to indicate the use of electronic collaboration affected teacher adjunct duty time. Staff members reported that their time using electronic collaboration was valuable because it was convenient, it increased awareness, and provided more avenues for input. |
