Technology
Early in the 2021-2020 school year. Students were surveyed. Students were asked about their technology accessibility. They were asked what technologies they had access to, how often they would bring available technologies to class, and how their devices are used in class. Students were asked 7 questions on Microsoft Forms. 35 students responded.
Questions 1: Do you have a personal device? ie cellphone, tablet, laptop
35 out of 35 students own a personal device, such as a cellphone, tablet, or laptop.
Questions 2: What kind of device do you have?
31 out of 35 students have a cellphone. 7 out of 35 have a tablet. 13 out of 35 have a laptop, and 1 out of 35 students have a different device that isn't mentioned. Many students have more than one type of device.
Questions 3: Do you bring your device to class?
33 out of 35 students bring their devices to class. One student does not bring a device to class, and one student sometimes bring a device to class.
Questions 4: How do you use your device in class? (be honest!)
20 students use their device to text. 19 students use their device for research. 17 students use their device for music. 15 students use their device to play games. 1 student uses the device for Text to Speech/Speech to Text option. 5 students use their devices for other ways.
Questions 5: In your opinion, is your device a distraction to your learning?
18 students feel that their device is distracting sometimes. 13 students feel that their device is not a distraction, while 4 students recognize their device as being a distraction.
Questions 6: When do you find yourself more distracted by your phone?
Boredom is the largest contributing factor to students being distracted by their phones. Students will also use their devices when they are confused, tired, stressed, struggling emotionally, and/or needing a break.
Questions 7: What learning activities help me feel engaged in the learning?
Students were asked to give feedback on activities that would help build engagement in the classroom. Students gave suggestions such as; group work, work periods, breaks, and technology use such as Kahoot!
