Date of Award
Fall 10-24-2018
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education in Teacher Leadership (Ed.D)
Department
Educational Leadership
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Dr. Karen DiBella
Committee Chair
Dr. Kimberly Gray
Second Committee Member
Dr. Daphne Hubbard
Third Committee Member
Dr. Susan Stockdale
Abstract
This study reveals educators’ journey through a change process as an innovation was being infused throughout their instructional practices. Traditional professional learning is not fashioned to address the ongoing concerns teachers have and the structure to sustain change. There is evidence to suggest that teachers are resistance to change due to the lack of attention placed on individualized change. This research investigates the topics of organizational change, individual change, evolution of professional development, teacher resistance, and individual coaching to lead to a deep understanding of the structural components of teacher support in order for change to transpire. This research is positioned to support teachers with individualized coaching through change in instructional practices, address teacher concerns identified through the Stages of Concern Questionnaire survey and individual interview responses, and provide a model for change initiatives that can be emulated by other institutions. Chapter one provides background to the study, the researcher’s personal connection with the topic and research site, the purpose and significance of the study, research questions, definitions of the key terms, as well as a description highlighting the organization of the dissertation. Chapter two of this study emphasizes the review of literature for this research including the topical research issues and the theoretical framework that support the research. Chapter three contains detailed descriptions of the methodology conducted for this study. The findings of this research are ascribed in chapter four. Chapter five pronounces discussions, implications, and conclusions for the research.