Chapter II
Review of Related Literature and studies
Related Literature
Technological advances had greatly changed the
education landscape in that teaching is no longer confined
to the traditional face-to-face delivery of lessons.
Now, students can also learn outside the classroom via
the Internet. Through the convergence of traditional and
modern methods, students get to experience the best of both
worlds – they can be tutored in school and get additional
lessons through the Web.
The convenience and effectiveness of e-learning had
long been recognized by educational institutions and
education officials. A number of schools in the country have
embraced with enthusiasm emerging education technology in
that lectures are boosted by computer-based, or gadget-
based, learning. Today, in some schools, netbooks have
replaced notebooks and some lessons are delivered
electronically.
A survey conducted by Pearson Foundation in the United
States found that more than six in 10 college students and
high school seniors agree that they study more efficiently
by using tablets. A study conducted by Houghton Mifflin
Harcourt in California also showed that students using iPads
performed better in math compared to students using
traditional textbooks. Another study at Oklahoma State
University found that 75 percent of students said the use of
gadgets enhanced their learning experience.
Despite the fears of parents and some teachers that
gadgets may distract students, surveys and studies have
shown that generally, these technological tools are a big
help in learning. The United States had invested heavily by
providing computers for students in public schools. Reports
say the federal government spends more than $3 billion a
year on digital content alone. The US has also launched a
massive program to make high-speed Internet and free online
teaching resources available to remote schools. This year,
more states administered tests for the elementary and middle
grades through the Internet, discarding the use of pen and
paper. (Espinosa, John Paul;2016)
There is conclusive evidence that digital equipment,
tools and resources can, where effectively used, raise the
speed and depth of learning in science and mathematics for
primary and secondary age learners. There is indicative
evidence that the same can be said for some aspects of
literacy, especially writing and comprehension. Digital
technologies appear to be appropriate means to improve basic
literacy and numeracy skills, especially in primary
settings.
The effect sizes are generally similar to other
educational interventions that are effective in raising
attainment, though the use of digital learning has other
benefits. Also, the extent of the effect may be dampened by
the level of capability of teachers to use digital learning
tools and resources effectively to achieve learning
outcomes. More effective use of digital teaching to raise
attainment includes the ability of teachers to identify how
digital tools and resources can be used to achieve learning
outcomes and adapting their approach, as well as having
knowledge and understanding of the technology. This applies
in all schools.
Where learners use digital learning at home as well as
school for formal and non-formal learning activities these
have positive effects on their attainment, because they have
extended their learning time. This is particularly important
for secondary age learners. (Scottish;2015)
Related Studies
Issue of unintended consequences of use of technology
in class room is important because unintended consequences
can cause disruption in class room and negate the
institutional policies regarding strategic direction and
intervention in teaching and learning process. Current
literature on the use of e-learning for teaching focuses on
factors which increases the effectiveness of e-learning but
there is very little research on unintended consequences of
e-learning, particularly in regard to developing countries.
The most observed positive consequences were instant
messaging through chatting, lesson enquiry about
assignments, sending and receiving e-mails, research through
surfing the net including data gathering by downloading
files and sharing cultural experiences with others through
internet. Among the negative consequences listed by students
were accessing social websites like face book, twitter etc.
during class work, playing games, playing music, answering
and returning calls and downloading and using copyrighted
material. (Carbonilla, V. G.; Bhati, S.; 2016)
Different technologies have been implemented in the
educational system in Norway over the last decade and it has
been a subject of debate whether the use of technology
enhances students’ educational outcomes. The aim of this
master thesis is therefore to analyze the causal effect of
the one-to-one laptop program in upper secondary education
in Norway on the performance in three common core subjects:
first-choice form of Norwegian, second-choice form of
Norwegian, and English. The results of this study indicate
no clear benefits of technology use on academic performance
is complex, i.e. There are both positive and negative
effects, and performance is only reported as an average at
school level. (Stakkestad, S.V.; Stordal, F;2017)