McEvoy, Helen (2019) How do I facilitate pupil oral language development by using iPads as a learning tool with junior infants? Masters thesis, National University of Ireland Maynooth.
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Abstract
The purpose of the research was to provide opportunities to facilitate oral language
development in junior infant pupils. My aim was for junior infant pupils to develop their
communication skills while using the ICT electronic device the iPad. I chose self –study
action research as a paradigm as it was about examining my own values and bringing about a
change to my practice. My context of teaching in a DEIS school influenced the values I
identified. The data collection methods I used were qualitative for example reflective journal,
teacher observation, focus groups with pupils and interviews with class teachers. Professional
dialogue with my critical friend, colleagues and supervisors ensured triangulation of data.
Manoah University guidelines were adhered to and confidentiality and anonymity of
participants was guaranteed. My findings were junior infant pupils engaged effectively with
enquiry - based learning on the iPads and had the necessary digital skills needed to use the
iPads. Opportunities for oral language development were provided because using the iPads
encouraged discussion, collaboration, presenting and sharing of information. Using iPads in
the classroom created a fun learning atmosphere and increased pupil motivation and
engagement in tasks. The teacher’s role evolved, as I became more of a facilitator as the
pupils engaged in tasks independently on the iPad and needed little assistance. There was less
teacher talk and an increase in pupil conversations. My research is very timely in the current environment when all schools were closed in March 2020, due to Covid 19. Pupils had to
engage in remote learning at home using electronic devices. The significance of my research
for my professional colleagues is my thesis outlines my action research sessions where the
junior infants took photographs of the school garden using iPads and used the Book Creator
app to make their own eBook. My thesis is a source of encouragement for colleagues to
nurture and embrace a culture of using iPads as a learning tool in their school.
Item Type: | Thesis (Masters) |
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Keywords: | facilitate; pupil; oral language development; iPads; learning tool; junior infants; Froebel; Department of Primary and Early Childhood Education; |
Academic Unit: | Faculty of Social Sciences > Froebel Department of Primary and Early Childhood Education |
Item ID: | 13702 |
Depositing User: | IR eTheses |
Date Deposited: | 30 Nov 2020 16:52 |
URI: | https://mu.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/13702 |
Use Licence: | This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here |
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