| The purpose of this study was to determine Illinois high-school principals' perception on the effectiveness of computer technology in aiding job performance. Additionally, the study analyzed what applications principals used to perform the requirements of their jobs. Last, the study examined principals' perceptions based on the computer technology available to them.; Specifically, the research sought to answer the following questions: (1) What computer technology and software applications are available to high-school principals? To what extent do principals have computer and keyboarding skills to use the computers? Are there differences in availability and skill level based on gender, number of years as principal, age, or school setting? (2) What computer applications do high-school principals use in their work as principals? Are there differences in computer applications used based on gender, number of years as principal, age, or school setting? (3) For which tasks and job responsibilities do principals most frequently use computer technology? and (4) To what extent do principals perceive that computer technology impacts their effectiveness and efficiency as principals? Are there differences in perceptions of impact based on gender, number of years as principal, age, or school setting?; The researcher explored the perceptions of principals regarding the impact of technology on job effectiveness through quantitative methods. This information was gathered through the use of a survey instrument sent to public secondary-school principals in Chicago, Cook, Will, McHenry, Lake, DuPage, and Kane counties. The data gathered allowed the researcher to look critically at the uses, impact, and perception of technology on the effectiveness of secondary-school principals.; A review of related literature includes information on the uses of computers by secondary-school principals. This includes a review of the literature as it relates to technology in the following areas: leadership, vision, and planning for principals in relation to technology; uses of technology; training and standards; growth of technology in schools; basic competencies; technology in management; decision making; and professional development. The research in this study clearly states that technology is positively affecting the job performance of secondary-school principals. Also, the research shows that technology is having an impact on the secondary-school principalship. |
