Date of Award

2011

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Snyder, Lisa Gueldenzoph

Abstract

The objective of this research was to determine students' perception of technology in higher education. The study participants were recruited from two institutions of higher learning: a small private women's historically black college (School A) consisting of about 740 students and a large public historically black university (School B) consisting of about 10,000 students, both located in a single mid-sized metropolitan area in the southeastern United States. . The analysis of the data revealed that there was a significant difference in the personal [t(384) = 6.952, p = 0] and educational [t(326) = 7.470, p = 0] use of technology by Millennials and Non-Millennials. Additionally, the results revealed a significant difference of Millennials and NonMillennials perceptions of the technology provided by their college [t(466) = -4.168, p = 0]. Lastly, the results revealed a significant difference in students‘ perceptions of the colleges‘ understanding of how the student wants to use technology as a learning tool [t(384) = -2.241, p = .02]. In summary, Millennials are frequent users of social media, such as Facebook, for personal use. Their interest in personal technology can be reflected in the classroom. Faculty should understand how to effectively use technology as an effective learning tool. Educational leaders can play a significant role in facilitating a technological culture and supporting faculty development.

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