Investigating 'The Coolest School in America': How Technology Is Used in a Learner-Centered School

Reigeluth et al. ("Educ Technol" 48(6):32-39, 2008) proposed major and secondary functions for educational technology systems for the learner-centered paradigm of education. However, the functions proposed should be formatively evaluated and revised using a variety of cases to develop a better understanding of how technology can support student learning in the new paradigm. Using the Minnesota New Country School as a case, this study aimed to improve the selection and description of functions that educational technology should serve in the information age. Multiple mixed methods were used to collect and analyze data from the advisors (a role similar to teachers) and students. The findings identified the functions of the school's major educational technology system (Project Foundry) and revealed how the key stakeholders, including the advisors and students, used it and what suggestions they had for its improvement.