One-to-One Technology in K–12 Classrooms: A Review of the Literature From 2004 Through 2014

Abstract

This literature review examined empirical research conducted between 2004 and 2014 regarding 1:1 technologies in K–12 educational settings. Our overarching research question was: What does research tell us about 1:1 technology in K–12 classrooms? We used the constant-comparative method to analyze, code, and induce themes from 46 relevant articles. Findings showed that the studies selected for analyses primarily concentrated on the following themes: effects on student achievement, changes to the classroom environment, classroom uses, effects on learner motivation and engagement, and challenges to classroom integration. In this article, we define each of these themes, describe the implications of the use of technologies on a 1:1 basis in classrooms, and offer suggestions for future research.

Keywords:

• education
• laptops
• one-to-one
• technology implementation
• tablets

Declaration of Conflicting Interests

The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Funding

The authors received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ben Harper

Ben Harper is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy at George Washington University. His research interests focus on learning support services and structures in independent schools and the influences of technology integration on student–teacher classroom interactions. Please address correspondence regarding this article to Ben Harper, Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy, George Washington University, 2134 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA. E-mail: [email protected]

Natalie B. Milman

Natalie B. Milman is an associate professor of education technology in the Department of Educational Leadership at George Washington University. Her research interests focus on 21st-century pedagogy, including strategies and models for the effective integration of technology at all academic levels; online student support needs, engagement, and learning; and the use of digital portfolios for professional development.