framework for the implementation of a virtual design studio model in ...

management cultures in order to suit the existing globalised economy.
Using collaboration in the VDS model and a shared vision among the
working group suggests a new way of working as a team culture is
promoted.
9.5.3 Recommendation 3: Professional Development Approach
In line with the UAE‟s mission towards technology use and the
availability of a strong infrastructure for technology integration which the
educational institutes are aware of and which has been stated
repeatedly by H.E. Sheikh Nahyan (the Minister of Higher Education).
The faculty lecturers‟ attitude towards the VDS is a crucial factor in its
success as evidenced by the focus group and the interviews. Research
supports the view that the effective integration of technology in
education is directly related to the intrinsic motivation of the teaching
staff. This highlights the importance of skills development among staff
and professional development in technological skills. It is crucial for the
staff and the management to have a shared vision in terms of
technology‟s role in education and its integration, and the help and
technical support available for staff. The universities should provide on-
going professional development courses and make its goals regarding
technology and its use in education a visible statement. The university
would benefit from deploying some techniques to motivate lecturers to
undertake professional development courses. It will also benefit from
motivating the lecturers to deploy technology in their teaching practice.
The lecturers‟ awareness of the university‟s adoption of a vision for
technology could help them align their attitude towards technology use.
9.5.3.1 Faculty Professional Development
As the UAE‟s vision for technology adaptation is growing the need of an
equivalent response from the faculty at the universities is critical.
Literature 331 also revealed important factors that support the faculty‟s
331 Bennet, J., Bennet, L. (2002). ‘A review of factors that influence the diffusion of innovation when
structuring a faculty training program’. The Internet and Higher Education. Elsevier Sciences. 6(1). p53-63.
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