The role of the iPad in collaborative learning in a large-enrollment first-year physics module. (14th June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van der Ventel, Brandon; Newman, Richard; Botes, Lise; Goldberg, Alan
• Is Part Of: Physics education. Volume 51:Number 4(2016:Jul.)
• Publication Date: 2016-06-14
• Subjects: Physics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) -- Periodicals; 530.0712
• DOI: 10.1088/0031-9120/51/4/045017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0031-9120

Abstract

Abstract: The role of the iPad was investigated in the possible enhancement of collaborative learning within a tutorial setting in a large-enrollment first-year physics module. Every tutorial session was divided into an 'iPad group' and a 'non-iPad group'. A set of core apps was chosen to facilitate discussion within the group. In order to maintain parity across the two groups, all the tutorial questions had to be refitted into a form suitable for use with the iPad. The results of a survey done after each tutorial indicates that, qualitatively, the iPad significantly enhanced the learning experience and strongly contributed to discussion within the group.