Understanding Teachers' Use of iPads in Instruction: Examining the Role of Professional Development

• In Event: 16.060 - Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: 16.060-15 - Mobile Technologies in the Classrooms

Abstract

This study examined 342 teachers’ views of professional development (PD) provided by their district to support a district-wide iPad initiative. We were interested in investigating if teachers’ views of PD changed during their one-year iPad implementation and what were teachers’ perceptions of this PD. The findings, using both quantitative and qualitative data, showed although teachers held overall positive views regarding the district-provided PD, their perceptions did not change over the one-year implementation. Rather certain teacher characteristics such as teachers’ beliefs, competence, and school levels influenced their views. This study highlighted the importance of providing situated PD and considering teacher characteristics when designing PD. Given the increasing interest by schools to launch their mobile initiatives, such evidence-based research is much needed.

Authors

• Min Liu, The University of Texas - Austin

• Yujung Ko, The University of Texas - Austin

• Cynda Fickert, The University of Texas - Austin

• Amanda Willmann, The University of Texas - Austin