Action Research Project Title: Do iPads Increase Student Engagement and Scores?

Blog URL: http://jcdelacruz1.blogspot.com/2012/10/font-definitions-font-face-font.html 

Number of AR Project Documented Hours: I have many.  Do I count the student log in information every time they have used iPads?

AR Project Summary (at least 250 words): Goal: To Promote the use of iPads in the classroom for all subjects and determine if iPads increase student engagement and learning in the classroom and reflect on test scores. We will compare scores with another school that will not be using iPads. 

I started out the action research by obtaining principal's permission to conduct action research at Juan Seguin Elementary in second though fifth grade.  I had teachers complete an informal survey in third through fifth grade in regards to comfort level using iPads and Apps to teach all subjects.  We learned that not many were familiar with the use of iPads and needed more training on how to use different Apps with classroom instruction in all subject areas. The principal and I got together and brainstormed what can we do to help all teachers become iPads savvy and use iPads in the classroom.  We approached Apple and district for help and were successful in getting the right help.  I selected one class per grade level (third through fifth grade) to conduct action research with and picked a math/science class in third grade, my class in fourth grade and a self-contained class in fifth grade.  I have started to review 2011-2012 school year STAAR scores, and district assessments for some students in third through fifth grades to able to compare with 2012-2013 school year STAAR and district results. We have been meeting with teachers and administrator once or every other month to ensure the action research plan is being followed and to collaborate on new ideas to use in class.  We have had many App trainings and shared many ideas on how each teacher is using different Apps in all subjects.  One App that seems to be very popular is CBB (Creative Book Builder), which allows students to research topic that will allow them to publish their own e-book.  Now I just have to wait to complete the school year to get STAAR and all district assessment results to desegregate data, conduct end of school year surveys and teacher interviews to see if iPads are a great resource in the classroom.