Graduation Term
Summer 2025
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
School of Teaching and Learning
Committee Chair
Benjamin Wellenreiter
Committee Member
Kyle Miller
Abstract
This qualitative study examines how geographic disparities influence the integration of educational technology in rural Illinois high schools. Through interviews with a technology specialist from a rural district and a curriculum director from a non-rural district in Illinois, the research explores differences in access, instructional use, and systemic support. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) Ecological Systems Theory and DiGironimo’s (2011) Three Dimensions of Technology, findings show that while both districts value technology, rural integration tends to focus on access and functionality, while non-rural schools more often embed technology into inquiry-driven instruction. These results highlight the need for context-sensitive approaches that consider not just access, but how technology is meaningfully used in teaching and learning.
Access Type
Thesis-Open Access
Recommended Citation
Laible, Rebecca M., "From Access to Application: Exploring the Depth of Technology Integration in Rural and Non-Rural Schools" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 2174.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/etd/2174
DOI
https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD.1763755358.865692