The Effects of Chromebook Use on Student Engagement

Article Information

• Title: The Effects of Chromebook Use on Student Engagement

• Authors: Mohammad Albataineh, Brenda Warren, Adel Al-Bataineh

• Published in: International Journal of Technology in Education and Science (IJTES) 2024

• Citation: Albataineh, M., Warren, B., & Al-Bataineh, A. (2024). The effects of Chromebook use on student engagement. IJTES, 8(1), 138-151. https://doi.org/10.46328/ijtes.530

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Chromebook technology on student engagement within a secondary classroom setting. It was conducted in a health course with first-year students utilizing Chromebooks for the first time under a one-to-one initiative, incorporating them into daily lessons and activities. Methods included observations, teacher journals, and field notes to track students' engagement levels, focusing on on-task and off-task behaviors over a six-week period. The findings highlighted an increase in student engagement, motivation, and positive interactions in a 9th-grade classroom of 28 students.

Introduction

In today's educational environment, technology has become integral, as schools transition to 1:1 Chromebook initiatives. The Common Core State Standards expect schools to enhance technology use in addressing educational goals. Chromebooks, accounting for a significant share of mobile devices in education, are valued for their user-friendliness and support for student success.

Key points include:

• In 2016, Chromebooks represented 58% of mobile devices in schools, up from less than 1% in 2012.

• The initiative aims to enhance students' access to educational resources and develop critical skills for future endeavors.

• As technology evolves, its use in education promises improvements in productivity and structure.

Benefits of Chromebook Technology

Chromebooks offer access to a multitude of educational resources and tools tailored for classroom use. Notable benefits include:

• Educational apps and adaptive software enhance student learning experiences.

• G Suite for Education allows seamless collaboration and communication among students and teachers.

• Chromebooks facilitate student organization and project collaboration, aligning with modern learning preferences.

Student Engagement Issues

Engagement levels in students have been declining, particularly as they advance through grades. Research has categorized student engagement into three dimensions: behavioral, emotional, and cognitive. Essential characteristics of engagement include:

• Participation and focus during lessons

• Interest and ownership of learning processes

• Interaction with peers.

• It's crucial to balance technology use in class to foster engagement rather than distraction.

Potential Challenges

Despite the benefits, concerns about the over-reliance on technology and its impact on interpersonal relationships persist. Key challenges include:

• Potential lack of face-to-face interaction might hinder relationship building between teachers and students.

• Students may become overly reliant on screen-based learning rather than interacting with peers.

Literature Review

Research indicates both positive and negative effects of integrating Chromebooks in education. On one hand, 1:1 initiatives have shown promise in enhancing student engagement and learning. Yet, there are associated challenges, such as:

• Technical issues (e.g., connectivity failures during assessments).

• Distraction from educational tasks.

Positive impacts include increased motivation and engagement through interactive tools. However, negative effects can arise from misuse of technology, indicating the necessity for careful management of technology in classrooms.

Research Methodology

This qualitative study involved direct observations in a 9th-grade classroom using Chromebooks over six weeks. Data collection focused on:

• Monitoring on-task and off-task behaviors.

• Engaging with students actively and passively.

• Assessing the effectiveness of various educational tools used through Chromebooks.

Results

The study revealed that:

1. Tools and Applications: Utilized apps had varying effects on keeping students engaged.

   • 80% of homework completion rates were consistent whether online or hard copy.

2. Interactive Learning: Tools like Quizlet and Kahoot demonstrated effectiveness in motivating students and enhancing participation.

   • 100% engagement noted with Quizlets, compared to 83% with traditional methods.

3. Organizational Tools: Programs like Google Translate supported students with diverse needs, contributing positively to their engagement.

Conclusion

The study concludes that Chromebooks positively influence student motivation and engagement, particularly when incorporated into interactive lessons. While there are challenges associated with their use, they also develop essential skills needed for the future. Recommendations for continued Chromebook integration reflect the need for ongoing monitoring and adaptation to effectively meet the varied learning styles of students.

Recommendations

• Continuous integration of Chromebook technology while retaining traditional strategies.

• Teachers should adapt instructional strategies to engage with diverse learning preferences and remain up-to-date with technological changes.

• Ongoing research is necessary to measure the long-term effects of Chromebook use on academic achievement and student engagement.