An Analysis of the Relationship Between Bring Your Own Technology and Academic Achievement in the Middle School Environment
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Authors
Mercer, Valerie Smith
Issue Date
2016-05
Type
Dissertation
Language
en_US
Keywords
Educational Leadership , Dissertations
Alternative Title
Abstract
BYOT (Bring Your Own Technology) is the practice of students bringing their own digital devices to school to use for academic purposes. This practice has been growing since the early 2000s. BYOT has been touted as a solution for schools which may lack hardware and network resources to provide devices to all students. By allowing BYOT, schools have created a learning environment which permits assortments of tablets, phones, laptops, and smart devices. With the introduction of a miscellany of devices, teacher practices have had the opportunity to change. Despite a growing proclivity of BYOT, the question has remained of the impact these devices may have for students and teachers on achievement.
Mixed research methods were used to center on BYOT practices of middle schools with a focus on eighth grade standardized test scores. The student-to-computer ratio of school-owned technology was studied along with BYOT opportunities in schools. These two factors were examined in relation to the standardized test scores in the schools to determine if any achievement associations were found with school-owned technology or student-owned technology. In addition, a survey was utilized to determine BYOT practices in the school, hindrances to BYOT implementation, and teacher knowledge and skills to implement BYOT. BYOT and school-owned technology were not associated with academic achievement. The practice of BYOT will grow as schools continue to bring technology into classrooms, and teachers need more training to support school-owned technology as well as student-owned technology.