Abstract

The role of the CIO at a faith-based institution is both complex and one that continues to evolve. It is impacted by advances in technology, higher education and institutional culture, views on technology, the strategic use of technology and information, and the faith values of the school. A group of 27 CIOs at institutions within the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU) throughout the United States participated in a self-administered online survey providing demographic information and their perceptions on characteristics needed for current and future success. This descriptive quantitative research study determined the characteristics an effective CIO at a faith-based college or university needs and evaluated the impact organizational design has on both the CIO role and these critical characteristics. The results of this study indicate that reporting structure, size of institution, and age impacted both the CIO role and the critical characteristics needed for CCCU CIOs over the next twenty years. This study provides recommendations to assist CIOs within the CCCU to evolve the CIO role to further their institution in realizing its goals and mission. The recommendations include: modifying CIO development and recruitment strategies; positioning IT strategically within the organization; changing CIO mindset in order to be a visionary; and aiming to be a strategist balanced with solid operations.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Dissertations (EdD) -- Learning technologies; Chief information officers; Education, Higher -- United States -- Information services -- Management; College administrators -- United States; Universities and colleges -- United States -- Administration; Christian universities and colleges

Date of Award

2015

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Education

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Hamilton, Eric R.;

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