Comparing Technology Skill Development in Computer Lab versus Classroom Settings of Two Sixth Grade Classes
Audrey C. Rule
State University of New York at Oswego
Manuel T. Barrera, III
University of Minnesota - Duluth
C. Jolene Dockstader
John A. Derr
Jerome School District, Jerome, ID
Abstract
Preparing elementary students for online learning begins with basic computer competency. Computer competency skills were taught using integration of learned skills in the regular academic curriculum to sixth grade students under two conditions: (a) in a classroom with four computers, and (b) in a computer lab. Students of mixed ability (N = 53) were given pretest and posttest measures of technology skill development based on school district curriculum before and after eight weeks of instruction. Results showed that the group using the computer lab had higher overall scores in computer skills when compared to the classroom integration group. Higher scores for the lab were interpreted as the result of efficient and enhanced academic-engaged time inherent to the lab setting. An attitude survey given to all students indicated no significant differences between groups on perceived fear of computers, attribution of learning through computers, or enjoyment derived from using computers.
About the Author(s)...
Dr. Audrey Rule is Associate Professor of Curriculum and Instruction, teaching courses in mathematics curriculum and instruction and curriculum material development that incorporate technology integration. She is currently developing the new Early Childhood Teacher Preparation Program at the State University of New York at Oswego. Her research interests center on effective techniques for integrating technology with subject-area curricula through project work and hands-on materials. She can be contacted by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Dr. Manuel Barrera is Assistant Professor of Special Education at the University of Minnesota - Duluth. He is Project Evaluator of the arrowhead Preparing tomorrow's Teachers for Technology project at the university and teaches courses in special education and educational technology. His primary research interests include technology integration for teachers, videoconferencing and assessment for instruction of individual concurrently identified with learning disabilities and limited English proficiency. He can be contacted by e-mail at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Ms. C. Jolene Dockstader is completing a doctorate in Curriculum and instruction at Boise State University. A National Board Certified Teacher, she is involved in writing standards-based curriculum and assessments in language arts for the Jerome, Idaho School District. Her research interests include effective teaching and standards-based education. She can be contacted by e-mail at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Mr. John Derr is a sixth grade teacher in the Jerome, Idaho School District who has taught for ten years. He is a National Board Certified Teacher involved in technology during recent years. He serves as a technology coach in his school district. He can be contacted by e-mail at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
