Abstracts

 

EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF THE APPLE ‘IPAD’ ON MALE AND FEMALE CLASSROOM ENGAGEMENT IN A PRIMARY SCHOOL IN SCOTLAND

Iain McPhee, Lisa Marks,
and Dougie Marks
University of the West of Scotland
United Kingdom

Many studies have shown that the use of technology in the learning environments in schools may influence pupil engagement (Kearney, et al., 2011). Despite the recent surge in the popularity and use of touchscreen tablet computing technology by consumers, little research has been carried out into their use in a primary school setting. This study investigates the use of the Apple iPad in an upper primary school setting with regard to children’s engagement. Cognitive, emotional and general engagement was increased in lessons based on use of the iPad. Of particular significance was the increased engagement in boys to levels comparable to girls. The study suggests that tablet computer technology has potential as a useful tool in the classroom setting and in aiding convergence of the gender gap.
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