An Investigation Into the Use of Tablets and Laptops in Elementary Classrooms: Successes and Future Considerations in Technology Implementation

• In Event: Roundtable Session 53
  In Roundtable Session: Examining How and Why Teachers Use Digital Technology

Abstract

Teacher-directed technology implementation in 10 K-5 classrooms was investigated to examine how teachers used technology to enhance content knowledge. Five sources of data were collected: teachers’ pre-implementation description of how they would use the technology to improve instruction; teacher blogs; surveys; interviews; and classroom observations. Data sources were triangulated to check for congruency between self-reported and observed uses of technology to enhance content learning. Results demonstrated teachers’ desire and willingness to enhance instruction by using technology. However, discrepancies occurred between the teachers’ intended and observable use of technology to improve instruction.

Authors

• Erin Brook Shepherd, Hillsboro School District

• Mary Shortino-Buck, University of Portland

• Andrew Ratzke, University of Portland