Elementary Students’ Perceptions of their Authentic Engagement When Using iPads

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a 1:1 iPad initiative on student engagement in the classroom. This case study consisted of six 5th grade participants from a suburban elementary school. Thematic analysis of data indicated that the 1:1 iPad initiative provided participants with (1) engaging and meaningful learning, and (2) personalized learning experiences. Implications include the need for: (1) schools to be informed of best practices for the implementation of iPads; (2) teacher education to provide future teachers with coursework on how students learn with iPads; and (3) professional development for teachers to use iPads.