Digital Learning Leadership Practices in Technology Integration: A Systematic Review and Framework Synthesis

This research aims to identify school principals' practices in integrating technology.

The methodological approach employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Qualitative or mixed studies that examined school principals' practices in integrating technology into school teaching and learning conducted between 1999 and February 2023, were eligible. Data was searched through Science Direct, Springer, ProQuest, Emerald, Web of Science, Eric, and Google Scholar search engines. Thematic analysis was used to synthesize the findings.

Out of 6441 results from primary and supplementary searches, 19 eligible studies were chosen within five framework domains: Establishing and conveying the vision (creating a shared vision of technology integration, sharing vision continuously, and modeling technology use); Facilitating a high-quality learning experience for students (making data-based decisions, promoting technological pedagogy, and digital citizenship education); Building professional capacity (creating professional development opportunities, encouraging a professional learning community, embracing job-embedded learning, and encouraging differentiated learning); Creating a supportive organization for learning (providing appropriate resources, promoting a collaborative culture, leading change, supporting risk-taking, and fostering a positive attitude towards technology); And connecting with external partners (cultivating communication networks within society, and involving parents in education).

The results revealed notable distinctions in school principals' practices between blended learning and traditional education. Some practices of principals, such as curriculum planning, have become less prevalent. Nonetheless, there is a heightened emphasis on practices like engaging parents in education. Additionally, school principals facilitate students' learning by directly engaging in their tasks.