‘A new way of looking?’ Reflections upon one teacher’s experience of supporting learners using handheld computers

Abstract

This article explores the experiences of students who used interactive learning material on handheld computers in a gallery to support their understanding and appreciation of artwork. The article considers the wider implications of using technology to change relationships between teacher, learners and subject matter, and attempts to offer positive and pragmatic recommendations about the implementation of new technology into established educational contexts. Research was undertaken as part of the ICT Test Bed Project, set up by the DfES (UK Department for Education and Science) and funded by Becta (British Education Communications Technology Agency). Initial findings from this project are likely to be of interest to those exploring how mobile technology can be used to support the Government’s wider agenda for educational reform and offer a practitioner’s critical perspective on the possibilities and challenges offered by their use.

Keywords:

• teacher action research
• handheld computers
• mobile technology
• personalised learning
• student voice
• learner autonomy
• critical engagement in art & design education

Acknowledgements

I would like to acknowledge Dr Andy Convery of the University of Sunderland for his participation and theoretical guidance in the writing and research of this project and to Gurdeep, Sharonjit and Ria for sharing their thoughts so willingly. Teacher action research has been a key feature of the evaluation of the DfES ICT Test Bed Project and I am grateful to Andy Convery, Bridget Somekh and other members of the Test Bed Evaluation Team at Manchester Metropolitan University and Barking & Dagenham and to colleagues and pupils at Warren Comprehensive School for their encouragement and support. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the support I received from Selwyn College, University of Cambridge: Study Time for Teachers Scheme as I completed this paper and to Becta who funded the DfES ICT Test Bed Project and continue to endorse teacher action research in this field.