The Motivational Effect of ICT on Pupils

Abstract

This study, commissioned by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES), was designed to investigate the effects of information and communication technologies (ICT) on pupil motivation. The aims were to examine impacts of ICT on motivation and related issues such as learning outcomes, behaviour, school attendance and to quantify any impacts where possible. The study also set out to consider the ways in which ICT can best be used by teachers to enhance motivational impacts for pupils, especially for those disaffected with traditional forms of learning. A sample of 17 schools from across England, which had been identified as using ICT in motivational ways, was selected for detailed study. A range of research methods was adopted, including a large quantitative survey of pupils. It was the intention that learning was considered within a wider social and community context as well as in an educational context. Evidence was therefore gathered from sources within social and community settings as well as within schools.