Abstract:
The purpose of this action research study was to compare technology-based guidance
lessons with lecture-based guidance lessons in terms of student achievement and to assess
student opinion towards the use of technology in the classroom. Lecture-based lessons
and technology-based lessons were alternated in two fourth grade elementary classrooms.
A total of three units were presented with each unit being presented twice.
This study included surveys, interviews, observations, field notes and posttests. Posttest
scores from technology-based and lecture-based lessons were compared between and
within classes. For each presentation, the class receiving the lecture-based lesson scored
slightly higher than the class receiving the technology-based lesson. Within classes,
scores improved significantly on the second technology-based lesson and the second
lecture-based lesson. Surveys and interviews suggested that students had a good attitude
towards technology- integrated lessons. Students viewed technology-based lessons more
positively when compared to lecture-based lessons. Students also believed that during
technology-based lessons, their level of academic achievement was higher, although there
was not enough evidence generated by this study to draw that conclusion.
The results of the study were communicated to the learning community through a
presentation with elementary counselors countywide. This meeting supported the
inclusion of technology-based guidance lessons at the elementary level and creating a
support network in which elementary counselors can share technology-based units with
other counselors.