Teacher perspectives on the use of mobile devices to improve learner engagement and motivation

Abstract

The use of mobile devices in primary schools is still at its early stages. The study described in this paper aimed to investigate how these devices assisted primary school-aged students in their learning. It gauged the perception of teachers on the use of mobile technology, to engage students in learning. This study involved 12 teachers from two urban Auckland primary schools. Using a mixed methods approach involving a crafted survey and semi-structured interviews, the study provided deeper insights into how the use of mobile devices assisted learning in the classrooms. Though the implementation of mobile learning is in its early stages in these schools, teachers reported higher levels of learning engagement and participation. However, they voiced concerns over the lack of professional development they were provided before being tasked to use mobile devices in their instructional delivery.