Date Approved

5-1-2006

Embargo Period

3-31-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in Educational Technology

Department

Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math Education

College

College of Education

Advisor

Molinari, Louis

Subject(s)

Education--Effect of technological innovations on--New Jersey; Educational technology--New Jersey

Disciplines

Educational Methods

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) are being used in the K-8 classrooms and if so to what extent. By way of a stratified random sample, four counties in central and southern New Jersey were selected. A survey was developed and sent to the participating districts. Two hundred seventy-five surveys were mailed to eight districts, with a return rate of sixty-eight percent (68%).

Data was collected from the surveys and calculated into percentages. Although seventy-two percent (72%) of the respondents report using some form of technology on a daily basis, only three percent (3%) report using PDAs. Those who report using PDAs agree with the experts on a number of areas. One hundred percent (100%) of the respondents agree that PDAs can do the following: help children to become more technologically literate; help teachers to differentiate instruction; and help motivate students to want to learn.

This study found that PDAs are being used in the classrooms, but by very few teachers and/or districts. Recommendations for further studies are suggested.

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