Hassler Et Al 2015 Journal of Computer Assisted Learning
Hassler Et Al 2015 Journal of Computer Assisted Learning
June 2015
http://wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/jcal
Abstract
The increased popularity of tablets in general has led to uptake in education. We critically
review the literature reporting use of tablets by primary and secondary school children
across the curriculum, with a particular emphasis on learning outcomes. The Systematic
Review methodology was used and our literature search resulted in 33 relevant studies
meeting the inclusion criteria. A total of 23 met the minimum quality criteria and were
examined in detail (16 reporting positive learning outcomes, 5 no difference and 2
negative learning outcomes). Explanations underlying these observations were analysed,
and factors contributing to successful uses of tablets are discussed. While we hypothesise
how tablets can viably support children in completing a variety of learning tasks (across a
range of contexts and academic subjects), the fragmented nature of the current knowledge
base, and the scarcity of rigorous studies, make it difficult to draw firm conclusions. The
generalisability of evidence is limited and detailed explanations as to how, or why, using
tablets within certain activities can improve learning remain elusive. We recommend that
future research moves beyond exploration towards systematic and in-depth investigations
building on the existing findings documented here.
Keywords
tablets; schools; systematic review; iPad; Android; learning outcomes
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 1
1. Introduction
Since the early 1980s schools, colleges and universities have experimented with
technology for learning (Sharples et al., 2010). As the adoption of mobile technologies in
education becomes more widespread, research is starting to demonstrate the value of
incorporating such devices in teaching (McFarlane et al., 2008). Mobile devices can
enhance, extend and enrich the concept of learning in a number of ways (Traxler &
Wishart, 2011): (1) contingent mobile learning and teaching (where learners can respond
and react to their environment and changing experiences, and where learning and
teaching opportunities are no longer predetermined); (2) situated learning (where learning
takes place in surroundings that make it more meaningful); (3) authentic learning (where
learning tasks are meaningfully related to immediate learning goals); (4) context-aware
learning (where learning is informed by the history, surroundings and environment of the
learner); and (5) personalised learning (where learning is customised for the interests,
preferences and capabilities of learners). Cost, adaptability and scalability are among
motivations often cited for using mobile technologies to support learning (Ozdamli,
2012). Greater affordability of such technology, along with the rapid development and
expansion of wireless internet access, has resulted in mobile learning becoming
increasingly prevalent (Hwang & Tsai, 2011; Martin & Ertzberger, 2013). A range of
different mobile devices has been used educationally (Kearney et al., 2012; Frohberg,
2009; Naismith et al., 2004; Traxler, 2010), and includes devices such as specialised
handheld devices such as data loggers, phones and smartphones, low-power computers
such as the Raspberry Pi1, as well as tablets.
1
http://www.raspberrypi.org
2
"Forecast: PCs, Ultramobiles, and Mobile Phones, Worldwide, 2011-2018, 2Q14 Update" available
online: http://www.gartner.com/document/2780117 (Accessed 20/10/14).
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 2
applications in education, particularly in schools. As with many digital classroom
resources, the use of tablets has the potential to enhance learning (Kim & Frick, 2011),
for instance contributing to raised motivation (Furió et al., 2015), knowledge acquisition
(Lai et al., 2007), and enquiry-based learning (e.g. Haßler et al., 2011; Haßler et al., 2014;
Hennessy et al., in press; Hennessy et al., forthcoming). There is great potential to
research use of tablets in schools, particularly as the technology becomes more accessible
and capable (Johnson et al., 2014).
The motivational affordances of tablets have previously been investigated, and teamwork,
scaffolding, self-directed learning and device personalisation were found to be important
for learners (Ciampa, 2014). A longitudinal study that aimed to model the acceptance of
tablets as learning devices for high school pupils highlights how this evolves over time
(Courtois et al., 2014). The common perception that students always find tablets to be
motivating has also been challenged, and teachers have been advised to diligently
monitor student interactions with the technology, and to be critical in their selection of
apps, if the devices are to fulfil their educational potential (Falloon, 2013). A detailed
investigation into teacher beliefs, undertaken by Ifenthaler and Schweinbenz (2013),
demonstrates diversity in the attitudes of practitioners in addition to wide ranging
expectations of performance and facilitating conditions.
In our study, we critically review literature that reports on the use of tablets by children in
school, with a particular focus on learning outcomes. Our aim is to determine if, when
and how using tablets might impact on learning outcomes: Do the knowledge and skills
of students increase following the use of tablets for particular purposes, and, if so, what
factors contribute to successful or unsuccessful use? As described shortly, studies that
only consider the motivational affordances of tablets have been excluded from the
analysis. Our approach is based on the Systematic Review (SR) methodology, informed
by Kitchenham and Charters (2007), and the EPPI-Centre (2010). SR is a trustworthy,
rigorous and auditable tool (Kitchenham, 2004), allowing existing evidence to be
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 3
collected and summarised, while identifying gaps in current research (Kitchenham &
Charters, 2007) and assessing methodological rigour. This work builds on, and advances,
previous research through considering uses of all brands of tablet (not just one specific
manufacturer) and through reviewing the literature focused on actual learning outcomes,
not just motivational affordances. It addresses an identified need for greater information
on the nature of, and triggers for, learning outcomes due to growing interest in use of
tablets for education in schools (Johnson, 2014).
2. Methods
In this section, details of the methodological approach are outlined.
• [RQ1] Do subject knowledge and skills of students increase following the use of
tablets to support educational activities?
RQ2 included the nature of the specific activities engaged in, as well as more technical
and implementation issues.
• EBSCO3 (http://search.ebscohost.com/).
3
EBSCO indexes a number of relevant databases including the British Education Index (BEI) and
Education Resources Information Centre (ERIC).
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 4
Two sets of keywords and their permutations facilitated searches:
A - Tablets: tablet; iPad; handheld; Android; iOS; “educational apps”; “education apps”;
“educational applications”; “education applications”; touchscreen; “touch-screen”.
Search terms were selected after analysing the titles and keywords of three papers
previously identified as potentially relevant (Carr, 2012; Falloon & Khoo, 2014;
Henderson & Yeow, 2012). Boolean logic searches (e.g. “tablet” OR “iPad”) were used
where possible. When a database did not allow Boolean logic, individual combinations of
the search terms were used. The search strategy was considered effective following trial
searches. Other validation activities included using a ‘snowball strategy’ (checking the
reference lists and bibliographies of included studies for other relevant work), and
manually searching two prominent journal volumes known to have published work on the
use of tablets in education (Journal of Computer Assisted Learning and Computers &
Education).
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 5
• focused on the use of tablets in higher education, informal education (e.g. home
learning) or pre-school education (children under 5).
“Grey literature” (e.g. non-peer reviewed technical reports) was accepted if all other
inclusion criteria were satisfied.
2. Relevance to the review [review specific]: Relevance of a study for the specific
purposes of the review (i.e. to determine whether the knowledge and skills of students
increase following the use of tablets).
• DATA ANALYSIS: Is the data analysis and interpretation process appropriate and
clearly described?
• CLAIMS and EVIDENCE: Are claims made credible and are there sufficient
data to support the findings?
Three possible scores were awarded (0: not at all; 0.5: to some extent; 1: fully) and
recorded. The rating for trustworthiness was determined by the reviewer making an
overall judgement after taking into account the scores they awarded for each individual
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 6
criterion.
For relevance to the review (Category Two), a rating of high/medium/low relevance was
determined by a reviewer making a judgment after taking into account:
• whether the STUDY DESIGN was such that changes in students’ knowledge and
skills were considered from the outset (or whether changes were observed incidentally
during the course of research with other intentions).
One of the authors (L.M.) undertook the quality assessment, while another author (B.H.)
independently appraised a random selection of studies (8 of the 33 studies included in the
final set). There was full agreement on the overall quality ratings awarded to the sample.
• study aim/objective;
• research design and methods applied, including how learning was measured;
• number of participants;
All data were initially extracted by one of the authors (L.M.), while another author (B.H.)
extracted information from a random sample of eight studies whilst validating the quality
assessment. As no significant anomalies were evident, the data extraction strategy was
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 7
deemed to be appropriate. Extracted data were stored in a spreadsheet.
3. Results
3.1. Overview of the search process and quality
assessment
Several stages of screening were used to identify studies relevant to the review.
2. Detailed Examination: Reading the full text of identified studies, applying the
inclusion criteria and checking reference lists for other potentially relevant work. 33
studies progressed to Stage Three. 70 studies were excluded because they did not
consider learning outcomes (but instead addressed topics such as student motivation after
using tablets), or considered learning outcomes incidentally and not as an explicit part of
the research process. See Supporting Document 2 (Bibliography of publications not
discussing learning gains) for references of excluded studies.
To ensure that low quality or low relevance studies did not affect the outcomes of the
review, a minimum quality threshold of (T:Medium/R:Medium) was adopted. Any study
categorised as ‘Low’ for trustworthiness or relevance (or both) has been omitted from the
analysis presented. The decision to exclude these studies was motivated by previous work
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 8
which found that research judged to be of a low quality reported significantly larger
effects (i.e. impact of the intervention) than that considered to be of a higher quality
(Moher et al., 1998), and our assumption that studies of low relevance were unlikely to
make a strong contribution to the review in any case. Four studies were excluded on
grounds of trustworthiness because it was judged that they offered limited information
about the research context, sample and/or methodology, or presented largely anecdotal
observations with insufficient evidence for claims made. No studies were categorised as
T:High/R:Low or T:Low/R:High. Answers to the research questions defined in Section
Two are now considered by drawing on the 23 studies that satisfied the WoE minimum
quality threshold of T:Medium/R:Medium.
• involving diverse numbers of participants (e.g. four studies involved fewer than
10 participants, while seven involved more than 100);
• including individual (one-to-one) tablet use (15 studies); shared use, ie. many-to-
one (four studies); and mixed (i.e. individual and shared) use of tablets (four studies); and
Positive learning outcomes [16 studies]. Sixteen studies described positive learning
outcomes where tablets supported learning activities related to science (Furio et al., 2013;
Liu et al., 2012; Liu et al., 2013; Liu et al., 2014; Ward, 2013), social studies (Lin et al.,
2012) and mathematics (Riconscente, 2013). In addition, positive outcomes are reported
in teaching multiple subjects (Cumming et al., 2014; Ferrer et al., 2011; Goodwin, 2012;
Heinrich, 2012; Li et al., 2010), and assisting students with special educational needs
(Lopez et al., 2013; Gasparini and Culen, 2012; McLanahan et al., 2012; Miller et al.,
2013). Examples of specific topics where knowledge and skills improved include those
relating to the water cycle (Furio et al., 2013), plant morphology (Liu et al., 2012; Liu et
al., 2013; Liu et al., 2014), fractions (Riconscente, 2013), food-chain dynamics (Ward,
2013) and financial management and economics (Lin et al., 2012).
A diverse spread of sample sizes is present in the studies that report positive learning
outcomes, ranging from research that involved one participant (McLanahan et al., 2012)
to several thousand (Ferrer et al., 2011). In Figures 1 through 4 below, details of four
studies (all of which were determined to be of high trustworthiness and relevance during
the quality assessment) are provided to illustrate some ways in which the affordances of
tablets have successfully helped to support learning.
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 10
Figure 1 - Affordances of tablets to support learning: Furio et al. (2013).
Investigated differences between a mobile phone and tablet, in terms of size and
weight, as platforms for an educational game designed to reinforce children’s
knowledge about the water cycle. The intervention was developed based on
controversial educational theory (Gardner’s theory of Multiple Intelligences and Kolb’s
Learning Styles). Seventy-nine Spanish students, aged 8 to 10 years old, participated
during a one-day session. The game included multiple interaction forms (touchscreen
and accelerometer) and combined augmented reality (AR) mini-games with non-AR
mini-games. No significant differences were found between the two devices and
positive results were found for both. It was suggested that device form, however, may
not be a decisive factor for learning outcomes.
Investigated the effect of using collaborative concept mapping activities, using the
Group Scribbles system, in Social Studies lessons. Based in Taiwan, and involving 64
students aged 12, tablets facilitated learning in both 1:1 and 1:m settings over a period
of around one month. Members of each 1:1 group carried out their discussion and
posted ideas or concepts to their Group Board, using their individual tablets.
Conversely, having only one shared tablet, each 1:m group identified a team member to
assume the responsibility of creating and editing the concept map, while the rest
provided only verbal opinions. In both 1:1 and 1:m settings students demonstrated
learning gains, although neither setting resulted in significant differences. While 1:1
groups demonstrated more consistency in group participation, improved
communication and interaction, however, the 1:m groups instead generated superior
artefacts due to group discussion.
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 11
Figure 3 - Affordances of tablets to support learning: Lin et al. (2013).
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 12
Neutral [5 studies]. The studies reporting no difference in learning outcomes
investigated the use of tablets in activities in literacy and reading (Huang et al., 2012),
mathematics (Carr, 2012), basic life support and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (Iserbyt
et al., 2014), and science (laboratory simulation software for conducting experiments;
Nedungadi et al., 2013). One study compared students’ electronic text reading
performance with tablet PCs and printed books and found no significant difference
between groups with regard to reading speed or level of comprehension (Dundar &
Akcayir, 2012).
Across the seven studies there is no single overarching explanation for the neutral or
negative learning outcomes. However, such outcomes were not reported as being linked
to the nature of tablets. Indeed, studies suggest that students: had positive attitudes and
enjoyed interacting with tablets (Dundar & Akcayir, 2012; Huang et al., 2012; Nedungadi
et al., 2013); did not have difficulty adapting to the use of tablets (Dundar & Akcayir,
2012); and found tablets to be convenient and usable (Huang et al., 2012). Studies which
report neutral findings do not dismiss the use of tablets in the classroom but rather
encourage educators, school leaders and school officials to further investigate the
potential of such devices (e.g. Carr, 2012). Issues concerning tablets distracting students
(Sheppard, 2011) and negatively impacting on the quality of work produced (Culen &
Gasparnini, 2012), however, are areas that warrant further investigation, as mentioned
below.
See Supporting Document 3 (data extraction spreadsheet) for further details of data
that were extracted from each study.
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 13
readers (Cumming et al., 2014) within a single device, has the potential for supporting
learning and facilitating a diverse range of educational experiences (Goodwin, 2012).
Sometimes students do not require an introduction on how to use tablets, because they
have prior experience (Cumming et al., 2014). Training sessions can, however, help them
become familiar with tablets (Lopez et al., 2013).
Easy customisation and supporting inclusion. Adjusting text colour (Cumming et al.,
2014) and size (Dundar & Akcayir, 2012), as well as using synthetic voices and screen
viewing modes (portrait, landscape, zoom; Gasparini & Culen, 2012), has allowed
learners to adapt tablet-based resources to their individual needs. Tablets can be useful to
all students, and in environments where they are routinely used by all, stigmatisation
commonly associated with bespoke assistive technologies is minimised, raising academic
confidence (Gasparini & Culen, 2012; Miller et al., 2013). They can also be used in
implementing personalised learning environments, tracking learning processes in a
manner potentially superior to other methods (Huang et al., 2012).
Touch screen. History and geography teachers have perceived touch screens to provide
richer and more vivid pictorial representations (of topics such as the life cycle) than
traditional paper books (Cumming et al., 2014), while tablet displays are reported to be
more user-friendly and ergonomic than display types such as CRT and LCD (Dundar &
Akcayir, 2012). Moreover, manipulative touch screens promote the use of several
modalities, especially visual and tactile/kinaesthetic, and this may facilitate engagement
in a way that typical classroom experiences do not (McLanahan et al., 2012).
Availability and portability. Tablets can create immersive learning experiences that are
arguably similar to those at museums or historical sites (i.e. environments that are not
always accessible due to geographical, practical or financial constraints; Cumming et al.,
2014). The potential of an augmented reality approach using tablets has been likened to
children exploring the world and discovering new elements with a magnifying glass
(Furio et al., 2013). Tablet devices are easy for students to carry (Dundar & Akcayir,
2012), and this mobility can enable anytime-anywhere learning due to timely and easy
access to information and appropriate learning aids such as translation tools (Heinrich,
2012; Lopez et al., 2013). Students were also found to have strong awareness in
organising and self-regulating their learning following the use of tablets (Li et al., 2010).
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 14
tablets (ibid.). Teachers have identified benefits for their workload following tablet
implementation, as lessons had greater variety and pace, in addition to cost savings such
as reduced photocopying bills (Heinrich, 2012).
It is important that schools looking to invest in tablets ensure that they have a robust
wireless infrastructure, with sufficient capacity to accommodate entire classes of tablets
connecting simultaneously (Sheppard, 2011; Ward, 2013). The model and operating
system of the tablet selected must be taken into account as certain models may be better
suited for schools who wish to exert full control over content and exploit open-source
options (Sheppard, 2011). A related issue includes new tablet models being released
midway through implementation (Culen & Gasparini, 2012), and an occasional need to
purchase supplementary technology such as VGA display adapters (ibid.). Other issues
identified include the difficulty younger children can experience in handling tablets,
although external cases can help to remedy this (Furio et al., 2013). Another important
question is whether students have access to tablets outside school: Carr (2012) suggests
that giving students continuous access to technology outside of school may help to
improve learning outcomes.
The utility of a tablet in providing novel lessons is clearly limited by the availability of
suitable content (Ward, 2013) and issues with software can negatively impact upon
students’ work (Culen & Gasparini, 2012). Certain constraints of tablet platforms
imposed by manufacturers, such as the inability to use Java and Flash-based web content
on the Apple iPad, have also been found to have a limiting effect (Ward, 2013). A rethink
of the pedagogical approach is also necessary in order to take into account new issues
arising during multimodal interactions and collaborations between students sharing
tablets (Culen & Gasparini, 2012).
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 15
environments by supporting learners to mentally integrate different spatially separated
sources of information (Liu et al., 2013). There are nevertheless cognitive challenges in
mobile device-based learning environments that need to be considered in order to make
those environments effective (ibid.).
Both boys and girls indicated that they participated more in learning tasks when tablets
were used (Ferrer et al., 2012), and enhanced levels of collaborative working were
evident (Heinrich, 2012). The use of tablets resulted in an increase in students sharing
their digitally produced work (including via interactive whiteboards) and provided
opportunities for teachers to offer ongoing feedback and to collect cumulative assessment
data (Goodwin, 2012).
It has been suggested, partly due to technical considerations (synchronising content and
recharging batteries), that tablets may be best suited for individual rather than
collaborative use (Sheppard, 2011). The customisability of tablets can also cause
problems in shared use situations, as the ability to change font and font size can alter
page numbers which makes referring back to earlier pages problematic (ibid.). Some
students are reluctant to share ‘their’ tablet with fellow learners (Culen & Gasparini,
2012). In another study, students working in groups of two to three all responded that
they felt that they were able to spend enough time using the tablet, although a proportion
of students in groups of four responded that they would have liked more time to use the
device (Ward, 2013).
Importantly, an analysis of student performance following the use of tablets showed that
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 16
both one-to-one and many-to-one settings can improve learning outcomes (Figure 2: Lin
et al., 2012). In the one-to-one setting, there is no competition for tablets among students,
and in the studies reviewed there was consistently high group participation, improved
communication and interaction. However, the many-to-one groups generated superior
artefacts as all the notes were well discussed among the group members (ibid.). Because
of the high connectivity and the capability of co-construction supported by tablet
technology, students’ roles, participation and contributions within a group were found to
be more equal in the tablet class when compared to the pattern of collaboration found in a
non-tablet class (Li et al., 2010).
Teachers were able to use tablets to modify and redefine student learning by employing
transformative pedagogical models, and the technology acted as a catalyst for more
creative pursuits and exploration of new pedagogical approaches (Goodwin, 2012). The
Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework (Mishra & Koehler,
2006) is relevant to tablet use, and teachers have successfully applied their TPACK to
choose how to implement tablet-based learning (Cumming et al., 2014). A learner-centred
approach may be a particularly valuable strategy for students who learn from multimedia
content on tablets (Iserbyt et al. 2014).
The findings of the review are inherently limited by the quality of evidence that is
available. The development of a protocol and quality assessment checklist, in addition to
quality checking by two reviewers, help to ensure that low-quality studies did not
adversely affect the review outcomes.
Three studies, included in the final set of 16 which report positive learning outcomes,
have the same lead author and describe similar work relating to plant morphology (Liu et
al., 2012; Liu et al., 2013; Liu et al., 2014). All three studies were included in the review
as independent entities, however, as they were considered to be sufficiently distinct after
scrutinising the focus and setting of each, and given that the research was conducted at
different points in time.
Tablets are still a relatively new technology. Even in the short period since the completion
of our search, new reports have become available, offering new insights. Details of
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 17
literature identified following the conclusion of our search are presented in the following
section.
4. Discussion
4.1 Discussion of learning outcomes
The majority of the included studies report positive learning outcomes, and the nature of
tablets appears to be a relevant factor in this. However, we may ask how far this is due to
the specific affordances of tablets, and to what extent these affordances differ from other
(particularly mobile) technologies. As a thought experiment, it is possible to construct
scenarios where the differences between types of mobile devices is minimised, such as a
tablet with a keyboard being similar to a small netbook. In reality, however, the choice of
mobile devices (and corresponding software) is constrained by what is commercially
available and financially feasible.
Our review identified several affordances specific to tablets: the integration of multiple
features within one device, easy customisation and portability, and high quality touch
interfaces. Applications designed to run on tablets may be simpler and “more intuitive” to
use than their counterparts used with technologies such as laptops (running ‘traditional’
computer programs), because tablet-based applications are designed to work with a range
of screen sizes, and they often lack the notion of opening and closing applications, and, in
many cases, of saving data. This may have both educational advantages (e.g. less
complexity leading to faster learning curves) and disadvantages (e.g. reduced
functionality, less customisability). Additional factors, outside the reviewed literature,
include the fact that tablets are increasingly designed to work with cloud storage
(facilitating the storage and exchange of data) and are available at price points that make
them very competitive to comparable technology (Johnson et al., 2014). Indeed, one of
the advantages of lost-cost technologies is that they can support all students and meet
specific needs without stigmatisation, which may not necessarily be the case with
‘traditional’ assistive technologies.
How do the affordances of tablets compare to those of other devices? Some research hints
at the possibility that introducing tablets is reducing the use of desktop computers in
computer labs, but only inasmuch as this use was to do with basic activities (such as
looking up information and taking pictures: Chesterton Community College, 2014).
Unsurprisingly, certain technologies are more appropriate for particular tasks than others
and this is also true when considering uses for tablets: e.g. keyboards, larger screens and
specialised software (perhaps only available for certain operating systems) may be
needed to support specialised tasks such as extensive writing, mathematical constructions
and computer programming.
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 18
It is sometimes taken for granted that the one-to-one setting is most effective, rather than
considering a variety of settings (see Figure 1 for a diagram depicting some of the ways
tablets can be deployed in classrooms). In our literature search, only one study explicitly
considered the differences between one-to-one and many-to-one use of tablets (Lin et al.,
2012), indicating that using tablets can improve learning outcomes in both settings.
Importantly though, it was the many-to-one groups that exhibited more peer collaboration
and produced higher quality artifacts. The lack of direct comparison between one-to-one
and one-to-many scenarios in tablet research appears to mirror the laptop research
literature. For instance a special issue (Bebell and O'Dwyr, 2010) focuses on various
aspects of one-to-one educational use of laptops, with one study comparing one-to-one to
no technology (Shapley et al., 2010), but no discussion of one-to-one to one-to-many. An
exception to this is Larkin’s (2011) comparison, suggesting that two-to-one laptop use is
preferable to one-to-one, achieving a better balance between productivity, student
engagement, social activity, and individualised learning in primary schools.
Another factor that is not discussed is screen size: 7” vs. 10”, or even larger sizes (such as
13”). We would expect smaller tablets to be more suited to personal tasks, and larger
tablets to be more appropriate for collaborative working (e.g. facilitating group work by
sharing a tablet during discussions around a table). Clearly, the characteristics of the
device need to be such that they support learning intentions (in one-to-one and many-to-
one settings, which can both represent effective strategies, depending on the task).
However, each tablet feature (as well as the overall number of tablets) also has cost
implications. The trade-off between number of devices, screen size, cost, and
corresponding effective learning scenarios, remains completely unexplored in the
research literature, and needs to be urgently considered.
While evidence is limited on which approach facilitates the greatest learning gains,
specific affordances available with tablets (such as portability and typically long battery
life) potentially make them well suited for supporting collaborative activities. For tablets
to be used effectively in shared settings, however, constraints may have to be overcome.
Issues identified through this review include problems synchronising content (potentially
because of a limited number of user accounts), in addition to factors related to
customisability (such as modifying elements like font type). Tablets may enable a greater
degree of enquiry as certain learning tasks and situations (e.g. a laboratory-based
chemistry experiment) can be varied and repeated a number of times.
When undertaking this review, we expected that existing research would focus on
learning activities drawing on the specific affordances unique to tablets, such as the
availability of accelerometer (e.g. for multimodal interaction; Furio et al., 2013;
Riconscente, 2013) and GPS sensors (e.g. to enrich environmental data logging). We also
expected that portability would lead to more tablet use in situated learning (Liu et al.,
2013). Few studies were found to investigate affordances such as these, however, thus
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 19
highlighting a potentially fruitful area for future rigorous research. Among the excluded
papers we note two papers discussing GPS and outdoor learning (Jong, et al., 2012;
Pittarello & Bertani, 2012).
Regarding India, the work by Nedungadi et al. (2013) was included in this review, and
research on the low-cost Aakash tablets is ongoing (Gasu & Gujjari, 2015). Similarly, the
paper by Farias et al. (2013) about large scale deployment of tablet computers in high
schools in Brazil summarises some of the issues and points to future research about the
impact. In Thailand, a number of publications discuss the use of tablets (and the “One
Tablet Per Child” project), although the majority do not discuss learning gains (Van de
Bogart, W., 2012; Harfield et al. 2013; Prasertsilp & Olfman, 2014). One publication fell
slightly short of meeting our quality criteria (Viriyapong & Harfield, 2013), but
nevertheless provides a good overview of the challenges, and urges that “considerable
work is needed on a much wider range of issues if the impact of OTPC on primary school
education is to be better understood” (ibid., p. 183). The paper by Chang et al. (2013;
which was rated low on our quality scale), offers an account of tablet use in Sierra Leone.
The Kenyan Primary Math and Reading Initiative (PRIMR) programme studied the
effectiveness of three interventions for literacy using: tablets for teacher educators, tablets
for teachers, and eReaders for students. Gains in student learning outcomes were shown
for all three treatments, with no statistical difference between groups in terms of learning
gains, but significant differences in cost per student (Piper & Kwayumba, 2014).
Moreover, the authors conclude that the programme for teacher educators (with tablets)
was “not noticeably different from the base, non-ICT PRIMR intervention” (ibid. p.45),
i.e. overall learning gains were due to the instructional approach, rather than the use of
ICT.
A randomised control trial in Malawi, associated with the OneBillion project and
involving 400 children using a tablet-based maths-teaching app for 30 minutes a day
found tablet use to be more effective for learning mathematics than existing practice
(Pitchford, 2015; peer-reviewed, but published after our literature search). In addition, we
note the study described by Outhwaite (2014) of a trial with the same app in Scotland,
which offers an interesting comparison. The Zambian-based iSchool.zm
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 20
(http://ischool.zm) has developed a multimedia eLearning package, which uses
customised Android tablets, and is designed to cover the entire primary school curriculum
(in all eight official languages for early grades). Preliminary evaluation of learning gains
in subject knowledge and critical thinking skills (with tablet use in pairs, and overall
student-device ratios of 12:1) looks promising. There is some evidence that touch screens
can be of benefit when used to support students working collaboratively because they
allow for more equal device access, e.g. compared to a mouse (Haßler et al. 2011, p. 44-
45).
Whilst formal research is ongoing, it is likely to be the case that there are further
unpublished reports, e.g. by NGOs, that detail the use of tablets in various educational
contexts. Notwithstanding the limitations that such reports may have, we would urge
NGOs and sponsors to provide access to such information. Given the aspirations of many
governments (including developing nations) to roll out large-scale educational technology
initiatives, it is critical that all relevant evidence is made available to inform secondary
reviews and policy decisions.
Some of the research in developed contexts (reviewed here) may also apply to developing
contexts, but even where it does, the importance of specific factors may be different
(Hennessy et al. 2010; Power et al., 2014). For instance, while schools in developed
countries are likely to have access to other technologies (to which tablets are
supplementary), for those in developing countries tablets may be the only available
technology. Battery life (or solar power) is clearly more critical (as reliable and
affordable mains power is often scarce), as is versatility (e.g. being able to add
keyboards). Connectivity also remains a significant issue and has implications for access
to resources (see e.g. Haßler & Jackson, 2010). Given the diversity of the low-cost tablet
market, client-side assessment of quality and reliability remains a significant issue, as the
case of the One Tablet Per Child initiative in Thailand demonstrated (Intathep, L., 2013).
The Android One initiative (http://www.android.com/one/) addresses basic phone
requirements in developing contexts (such as battery life and power provision, usability
in areas with poor connectivity), and a similar initiative aimed at tablets in education is
highly desirable in order to ensure that investments are effective. For the time being,
laptops are still perceived as clear frontrunners: a recent survey of 1444 e-learning
professionals across 55 African countries found that 29% of respondents perceived
laptops as having greater potential in education and training in Africa than tablets (18%),
smartphones (17%) and basic mobile phones (16%) respectively (Elletson & MacKinnon,
2014).
The relatively limited and fragmented nature of the current knowledge base (compared to
research on better established technologies or mobile learning more broadly) makes it
difficult to draw general conclusions. The fact that included studies investigated a diverse
range of (often very specific) topics using a variety of research approaches limits the
generalisability of evidence, and means definitive explanations as to how or why tablet
use facilitates learning remain elusive. Despite this, there is little doubt that in principle,
tablets — like other educational technologies — can viably be used to support school
children of all ages to learn in a variety of settings.
While it has been possible to identify a number of technical factors that contributed to
(un)successful learning using tablets, it proved more difficult to draw out pedagogical
factors. This may be because a large proportion of identified research, including some of
that judged to be of high quality, is relatively limited in both scope and duration.
Research conducted soon after the introduction of a new educational technology is often
“scoping” in nature, and concerned primarily with the completion of a restricted initial
evaluation of viability. A number of the included studies are examples of such research;
results to date are generally favourable and there is clearly potential for more
comprehensive research. We therefore recommend allocation of greater resources to
undertake research that is more specific and extensive. Ways in which this may be
achieved are now outlined.
Traxler and Wishart (2011)’s five ways in which the use of mobile technology can
enhance learning are partially considered only in some studies (e.g. Dalla Longa & Mich,
2013; Huang et al., 2012; Li & Pow, 2011), leaving plenty of scope for the systematic
exploration of such frameworks in future research. Importantly, the majority of included
studies report research conducted in a "controlled" environment with limited teacher
involvement (i.e. with actual 'teaching' being led by the researcher(s)). We strongly
recommend, if successful pedagogical approaches are to be comprehensively documented,
that future evaluations involve use of tablet technology with practitioners and their
students over a sustained period of time (e.g. at least one academic year; certainly not at a
single point in time). Moreover, a large proportion of identified research offers limited or
no details of the activities that learners engaged in. This makes it hard or impossible to
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 22
identify effective uses of the technology. It also impedes replicability of the research or
implementation of corresponding classroom practices (i.e. schools making decisions on
what learning activities to undertake), as sufficient information is not available for these
purposes. Studies should provide enough detail about the learning approach, content, and
teacher background to allow replication by other teachers, a point also made by Quinan et
al. (2014) in their rapid literature review on teaching and learning for East Africa.
Tablets are new technology and research in the area is constantly evolving. Since the
conclusion of our search, work has emerged that offers new insights. An evaluation was
undertaken at one English school to establish the impact of children using iPads to
improve their self-directed learning, which proved to be a success with better results than
envisaged (Chesterton Community College, 2014). Recent work at Cardiff Metropolitan
University has also investigated the implementation of tablets in six primary schools,
although it was not possible to assess the impact of tablet use on learning and attainment
due to several factors (Beauchamp & Hillier, 2014). Key findings from the first two
phases of a 3-year study exploring primary school students’ use of tablets for developing
literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills have also been reported, and the emerging
practice of exploratory talk was identified as having potential for improving the quality of
student outputs (Falloon, 2014). Whilst relating to the use of laptops and not tablets,
recent work found how increased uses of simulations and spreadsheets, by both students
and teachers, were responsible for a greater effect size in terms of learning gains observed
(Crook et al., 2014).
Among the 12 studies rated as ‘high’ for methodological trustworthiness, nine report
positive learning outcomes and three no difference in learning outcomes; none report
negative learning outcomes. There appears little doubt that tablets (and other mobile
technologies) can viably support children so they are able to complete a variety of
learning tasks. As outlined previously, however, there is significant potential to enhance
the methodological rigour and design of research investigating the use of tablets to
support learning.
We also note that while no included study reports that the implementation of tablets failed
as a result of ineffective project management, poor management and technological issues
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 23
have led to the collapse of similar initiatives previously4. Even high profile schemes, such
as the the $1 billion Los Angeles School District iPad scheme5, have been affected by a
number of significant challenges. The development of rigorous contingency plans is,
therefore, essential from the outset for school-based tablet projects. Schools looking to
invest in tablets should acknowledge that educational technologies are most effective
when there is an orchestrated strategy to integrate digital and non-digital resources, and
that learning is improved when a school’s infrastructure facilitates the use of a new
technology (Diaz et al., 2014).
Schools ought not to assume that teaching staff are ready to operate tablets from the
outset (Melhuish & Falloon, 2010), but should actively create adequate opportunities for
professional development. A lack of relevant training, a shortage of technical support and
the absence of a tablet policy can prevent staff from using tablets on a regular basis
(Oliviera, 2014). It is, therefore, essential that adequate support is provided to teachers
charged with introducing tablets, as the established pedagogy observed in schools does
not change simply with the introduction of new technology (Osborne & Hennessy, 2003).
On the contrary, the power of using technology in some lessons relies on the premise that
technology is integrated into the existing pedagogy (Hennessy & London, 2013).
Researchers investigating what it is about tablets that supports students to learn should
seek to establish ways in which the technology can be used more effectively than other
similar devices to promote learning in the classroom. There is also potential for a greater
emphasis to incorporate teacher perspectives during future research. The fact that new
educational interventions require time to become embedded in classroom practice must
also be appreciated, and school leaders and researchers should acknowledge that the
benefits of a new technology might not be immediate (Carr, 2012; Silvernail & Gritter,
2004).
4
“Why one New Jersey school district killed its student laptop program”. Available at:
http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2014/07/why-one-new-jersey-school-district-killed-its-student-laptop-
program (Accessed 21/10/14).
5
“US schools seek refund over $1.3bn iPad project”. Available at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-
32347651 (Accessed 28/04/15).
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 24
may lead to higher learning gains than one-to-one. In line with the general research on
technology use in education in international development, we suggest that it may not be
the student-device ratio, but adequate and effective professional development
opportunities for teachers that are the limiting factor for student learning (Hennessy et al.,
2010; Power et al., 2014).
Future research must take great care to deliver findings that are generalisable to real-
world settings and appropriate for underpinning policy and strategic decision making in
schools.
6. Acknowledgements
We gratefully acknowledge a donation from ARM Holdings Ltd. that partially supported
this literature review. José Oliveira and Tim Hallas kindly provided drafts of their
Masters theses that also informed this review. Manzoorul Abedin contributed research
assistance in the early stages of this review.
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 25
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Appendix 1
High / Medium / Low
High / Medium / Low
Study Name Trustworthiness Overall
Relevance Rating
Rating
Burden et al., 2012 Medium Low M/L
Carr 2012 High High H/H
Chang et al., 2013 Low Low L/L
Culen & Gasparini. 2012 Medium Medium M/M
Cumming et al., 2014 High Medium H/M
Della Longa & Mich, 2013 Low Medium L/M
Dundar & Akcayir, 2012 Medium High M/H
Fernandez-Lopez et al., 2013 High High H/H
Ferrer et al., 2011 Medium Medium M/M
Furio et al., 2013 High High H/H
Gasparini & Culen, 2012 Medium Medium M/M
Goodwin 2012 Medium Medium M/M
Heinrich 2012 Medium Medium M/M
Huang et al., 2012 Medium Medium M/M
Iserbyt et al., 2014 High Medium H/M
Li et al., 2010 Medium Medium M/M
Li & Pow., 2011 Medium Low M/L
Lin et al., 2012 High High H/H
Liu et al., 2013 High High H/H
Liu et al., 2014 High Medium H/M
Liu et al., 2012 High Medium H/M
McLanahan et al., 2012 Medium Medium M/M
Miller et al., 2013 High Medium H/M
Nedungadi et al., 2013 Medium High M/H
Pegrum et al., 2013 Medium Low M/L
Pittarello & Bertani, 2012 Medium Low M/L
Preciado-Babb, 2012 Low Low L/L
Price, 2011 Low Medium L/M
Riconscente, 2013 High High H/H
Sheppard, 2011 Medium Medium M/M
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 34
Viriyapong & Harfield, 2013 Medium Low M/L
Ward, 2013 Medium High M/H
Watts et al., 2012 Medium Low M/L
Supporting Document 1
Quality Appraisal - Weight of Evidence (WoE)
For each study, consider the following criteria and assign an overall rating of high /
medium / low trustworthiness.
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 35
● CONTEXT: Is there an adequate description of the context in which the research
was carried out?
Consider:
○ Is it clear how the themes and concepts were identified in the data?
○ Was the analysis performed by more than one researcher?
○ Are negative/conflicting results taken into account?
○ Is the analysis sufficiently rigorous?
○ Is data triangulated?
● CLAIMS and EVIDENCE: Are claims made credible and are there sufficient
data to support the findings?
Consider:
○ Are sequences from the original data presented (e.g. quotations) and were
these fairly selected?
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 36
○ Are the explanations for the results plausible?
○ Are study limitations considered?
○ Do the researchers examine their own role and influence?
○ Is the credibility of findings discussed (e.g. respondent validation, more
than one analyst, sponsor influence)?
Assess the appropriateness of each study for answering the overall literature review
question, "Do the knowledge and skills of students improve following the use of tablets
to support educational activities?".
Consider:
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 37
Supporting Document 2
Bibliography of publications not discussing learning gains
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the 5th Grade. Learning Untethered.
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Botha, A., & Herselman, M. (2013). Supporting rural teachers 21stcentury skills
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In Information Technology in Asia (CITA), 2013 8th International Conference on
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Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 43
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Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 44
Supporting Document 3
Data Extraction Spreadsheet
(see separate document)
Tablet use in schools: A critical review of the evidence for learning outcomes 45