Research into 1 to 1 Programs
It is really not about the laptops. It’s about what the 1:1 laptops enable in terms of new ways of teaching and learning.
We have spent almost a year researching this initiative and have found a lot of supporting research from other schools, academic studies and from overseas.
A one to one program is not a new idea to teaching, even in Primary Schooling, and so we want to take advantage of their learning, missteps and models as we can.
Here are a few websites with further information and reflections on One to One Programs:
- http://epotential.education.vic.gov.au/showcase/resource.php?res_id=618&showcase_id=62
- http://one-to-oneinstitute.org/Display.aspx?id=18&menu=2
- http://www.det.wa.edu.au/education/cmis/eval/curriculum/ict/notebooks/
Below are a few of the key findings from the study undertaken by the NSW Government as they began implementing a one to one Netbook program throughout their school system. The full report can be accessed here: NSW Literature Review of 1to1 Netbooks.
Overwhelmingly, studies of laptop programs indicate many positive effects for students.
Students:
- write more extensively with improved quality
- have increased engagement in learning
- are more interested in learning
- focus on improving their performance
- work collaboratively, as they are more willing to share their work and help each other
- engage more in self-directed learning
- have greater self confidence and self esteem
- have greater ICT skills
- improve their research skills
- are more enthusiastic and have fun learning
- improve problem solving and critical thinking skills
- are engaged in more project-based work
- enjoy learning actively.
