iPads in K-12 Schools: A Grounded Theory Study of Valu

This qualitative grounded theory study investigated the value of iPads in K-12 schools when used in one-to-one ratios. The purpose of the study was to understand the perspectives of teachers using iPads in one-to-one ratios for teaching and learning in the classroom and administrators responsible for the implementation of these devices. The problem was that little was known about the value iPads bring to teaching and learning when used in one-to-one configurations. Two research questions guided this study: From the viewpoint of a teacher, what is the perceived value of iPads when used in one-to-one settings for learning and instruction? and: From the viewpoint of an administrator, what is the perceived value of iPads when used in one-to-one settings for learning and instruction? In one phase, phenomenological interviews captured the lived experiences of 16 teachers using iPads to implement instruction. In a separate phase, a focus group with five administrators discussed their perceptions of the educational value of iPads. The findings of this study were uncovered through the analysis of transcripts of the interviews with teachers and two focus group sessions. The data were analyzed and coded to better understand the phenomenon. Through this analysis, six themes and related subthemes were discovered. These themes were (1) ease of use, (2) district support, (3) teacher mindset, (4) student-centered learning, and (5) evidence of the SAMR model of technology use. These findings may be useful for teachers who use the devices and administrators in school districts considering the adoption of the devices.