A strategy development framework for educational technology: an integrated design science research and modified Delphi approach

Abstract

Emerging technologies are transforming educational practices, but successful integration requires improving the quality and efficiency of learning. New technology emerges in hype cycles but adoption and performance lag over time. A strategy development framework is needed for decision-makers to understand the complex interaction of all the factors to consider when making new technology investments. The research explores how strategy development occurs through the dynamic interaction of strategy with learning, and technology integration. It analyses the key elements of a strategy map for learning with technology and how they influence each other within the overall strategy map. The research design integrated the different cycles of Design Science Research (DSR) with a modified Delphi Technique in two phases of research. During the first research phase, Delphi panel members were interviewed to understand current challenges and practices in learning with technology. The results of the literature review and thematic data analysis from the interviews were used to create a hypothetical strategy map and a strategy development framework, as an artefact, as part of the DSR process. This framework was shared with Delphi members in the second phase of research, and they were requested to evaluate the framework for its fit and utility in similar contexts of learning with technology. The feedback contributed to the refinement of the artefact and highlighted the key operational focus areas for learning with technology. The key operational focus areas identified were the need to increase the basic technology literacy of students and educators, continuous professional development in terms of online pedagogy, and the need for principles in terms of multimedia design. Other focus areas were an online design blueprint and an improvement in learning and teaching experiences through efficiencies and productivity of ed-tech technologies. This study contributes a strategy development framework for educational technology which enhances theories around the analytical and conceptual processes when planning and implementing new emerging technologies in learning. Analytical processes include external and internal analysis and a SWOT analysis of aspects related to learning with technology. Other key outcomes of the study include a hypothetical strategy map for learning with technology which aligns business objectives to a financial, customer, internal business process and learning and growth perspective.