Preservice Teachers' Change in Perceptions of Mobile Technology During an Authentic Practicum Experience With Children

• In Event: 33.075 - Examining the Potential of Mobile Technology

Abstract

Few studies have provided preservice teachers with opportunities to use mobile technology in authentic settings with K-12 students even though this may be the most important of all experiences for preservice teachers (Rhodes, 2013). This study examines preservice teachers’ perceptions of using iPads with Kindergarten through third grade students participating in a not for profit afterschool program. The study involved 72 preservice teachers enrolled in a technology integration course. Findings note that participating in authentic experiences with children can have a positive affect on preservice teachers’ understanding of the potential and value of using mobile technology, their technological self-efficacy in using mobile technology as a tool to produce, and an increased awareness of students’ abilities to use mobile technology tools.

Authors

• Krista Ruggles, University of Florida

• Kara M. Dawson, University of Florida

• Kristan Kolb-Ellison, University of Florida