Instructional implicatons of laptop access: A case study approach

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a case study conducted to analyze the effects of laptop access via a mobile cart on the instructional activities of two teachers in relation to the National Educational Technology Standards for Teachers (ISTE, 2000). The investigation utilized a modified version of the Integration of Technology Observation Instrument (Wetzel, Zambo, Buss, and Padgett, 2002) to note trends in laptop implementation. Analyses revealed teachers’ instructional decisions met standards within each of the six categories, however, little evidence of students performing activities beyond the introductory level was observed. Additional examinations utilizing the Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow (Apple Computer Inc., 1995) continuum revealed the teachers’ attempts to implement technology to be categorized at the “Adoption” stage. Recommendations for more effective, student-centered technology integration include professional development activities that facilitate additional curricular decisions.