Freshman class II

Technical matters

Laura M. O'Dwyer, assistant professor of education

Ph.D., Boston College Lynch School of Education

Specialization: Instructional technology

Representative publication: "Identifying Teacher, School and District Characteristics Associated with Middle and High School Teachers' Use of Technology: A Multilevel Perspective," Journal of Educational Computing Research

My research attempts to identify organizational policies and practices that influence student achievement. Since teaching and learning occur in hierarchical organizations, this type of research can lead to the identification of policies and practices that will enhance learning and improve measurable outcomes for students.

I am working on research projects at the local, state and national levels that address how educational technologies are influencing formal education. For example, under the federal Department of Education's Ready to Teach grants program, Boston College is collaborating with Alabama Public Television and the Educational Development Center to examine the use of e-learning to enhance teachers' knowledge and classroom practices. In another project, I am working with the Louisiana Department of Education to develop online algebra instruction programs for schools where there are not enough certified mathematics teachers.