Nursery World - Study finds iPads benefit children's learning

New research suggests that using iPads in the classroom can have a positive impact on young children’s literacy, numeracy and communication skills.

Carried out by Stranmillis University College in Northern Ireland, the aim of the two-year study was to assess the impact portable devices, such as iPads and tablets, have on children’s learning.

Around 650 pupils in five Belfast primary schools and 'feeder' nursery schools/pre-schools, based in areas of deprivation, took part in the study.

The schools and settings were given iPads to use for specific lessons or purposes or for pupils to use across lessons. Teachers were also given their own iPads to use for ‘professional needs’ and to monitor and record pupils’ progress.

Researchers assessed children’s knowledge and familiarity with the tablet devices, along with carrying out classroom-based observations to see how devices were used to support teaching and learning during literacy and numeracy lessons. They also interviewed school principals and teachers and gave parents questionnaires to fill in.

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