Date of Award
Fall 12-14-2023
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology
Department
Instructional Technology
Committee Chair
Dr. Julie Moore
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Dr. Julia Fuller
Second Committee Member
Dr. Jabari Cain
Abstract
This qualitative case study explores the experiences of K-12 art teachers in the United States who participate in the #K12ArtChat, as a form of professional learning. Grounded in social constructivist learning, connectivism, and informal learning, this study addressed how and why art educators use Twitter Chats for professional growth and the potential impact of participation on their teaching practices. Five themes emerged from this study: Twitter's role as a professional development art education platform, the fostering of personal relationships and support, active community participation and advocacy, continuous professional development, and any perceived pedagogical shifts. With a significant emphasis on combatting the pervasive issue of teacher isolation, especially for those educators positioned as singletons without access to content-specific professional learning opportunities, the findings advocate for a shift in the perceptions and practices surrounding professional development for K-12 art educators.