Coordination of technology does not equal coordination of information technology: on misperception and maladaption

Both technology and IT require a steady increase in capability from the primary phase through the secondary phase (DES, 1990b); the need for coordination of such developments is obvious (NCC, 1990; CCW, 1990). This paper offers some reflections on the distinctly different natures of IT coordination and technology coordination based on evidence gathered from coordinators attending three courses provided in two LEAs. We will conclude that the role of technology coordinator is closely analogous to the role of head of department. The role of IT coordinator is far more problematic. The profile of the IT coordinator obtained from survey data is of a relatively junior member of staff given few resources to carry out a role which most closely resembles that of a deputy headteacher with responsibility for the curriculum. Unless school managers shift their perceptions of the nature of the task, efforts at IT coordination are doomed to failure from the outset.