Implementation of a 1-to-1 laptop initiative in a physical science classroom

Abstract

In addition to cracking open a book, writing ideas down on paper, studying with flashcards, or openly discussing ideas around a table, how willing and motivated are students to actually using their computers to complete certain classroom requirements? There is no doubt students like the idea of having their own personal laptop; but how can a laptop change the way students learn? Being 1-to-1 does not mean the previously mentioned methods of student learning behaviors are no longer part of a classroom routine; however, with the addition of computers into the classroom, each teacher needs to ask themselves: What instructional changes can be made to best utilize student laptop use and how can students be motivated to use the laptop as a tool to meet the course requirements? The purpose of this paper is to highlight multiple ways of incorporating laptops into a physical science classroom. In the final analysis, twenty-three students used their laptops to study and learn individually as well as in a group setting. The majority of these students found laptops to be an effective tool in the learning process.