The Effect of Handheld Computers on Middle-School Student Mathematics Achievement, Student Perceptions of Mathematics Instruction, and Teacher Experiences in Teaching Mathematics
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Authors
Jones, Jo Ann
Issue Date
2006-05
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
handheld computers , mathematics , attitude surveys
Alternative Title
Abstract
This research study was conducted in a sixth-grade mathematics class located in a South Georgia
middle school, where handheld computers were utilized for mathematics instruction. The study
sought to answer three research questions: (a) What effect does the use of handheld computers
have on student achievement? (b) What are student perceptions of using handheld computers for
mathematics instruction? and (c) What are the experiences of a mathematics teacher when using
handheld computers for instruction? Data were collected from attitude surveys, mathematics test
scores and grades, teacher lesson plans, a teacher interview, and classroom observations. The
results of the study show no change in student mathematics achievement as measured by course
grades, even though students liked using the handheld computers and remained engaged while
using them. The teacher's experiences while using handheld computers for classroom instruction
were mostly positive; however, some difficulties were encountered during the implementation of
the intervention. Some positive teacher experiences included: an appropriate approach for
integrating technology with the mathematics content, satisfaction from increased student
involvement, and reduced disciplinary incidents. A few of the difficulties in using the handheld
computers were the time required for training and the absence of readily available handheld
activities to address content lesson plans.
Description
Citation
Publisher
Valdosta State University
License
Copyright protected. Unauthorized reproduction or use beyond the exceptions granted by the Fair Use clause of U.S. Copyright law may violate federal law.