Date of Award

2026

Degree Name

Leadership Studies

College

College of Education and Professional Development

Type of Degree

Ed.D.

Document Type

Dissertation

First Advisor

Dr. Barbara Nicholson

Second Advisor

Dr. Ron Childress

Third Advisor

Dr. Regan Myers

Abstract

This qualitative case study explored how faculty at Midwest Community College integrated generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) into online instruction. The investigation examined how prior technological transitions—including learning management system adoption and the COVID-19 pandemic—shaped educators’ willingness and strategies for GenAI integration. A purposive sample of 10 faculty members from Liberal Arts and Mathematics and Science provided data through semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and virtual classroom observations. Systematic thematic analysis was used to identify adoption barriers and enablers within these distinct disciplinary contexts. The findings offered insights into faculty adoption behaviors and their roles as mediators of technological change. This research informed institutional policies and the design of targeted professional development programs to support community college faculty in navigating the GenAI-driven educational landscape.

Subject(s)

Educational leadership.

Educational technology.

Education, Higher.

Education, Higher -- Technology.

Artificial intelligence.

Generative artificial intelligence.

Education -- Study and teaching -- Technology.

Digital divide.

Educators -- Technology.

Distance education -- Computer-assisted instruction -- Education (Higher)

Community colleges.

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