264.
In this study, we examined the educational effects of providing fifth-, sixth-, and seventh-grade students with 24-hour access
to laptop computers. Specifically we examined the impact of laptops on classroom activities, and on student use of technology
and their writing and problem-solving skills. Participating teachers received computer integration training using the iNtegrating
Technology for inQuiry (NTeQ) model to develop problem-based lessons that engage students in critically examining authentic
issues, and strengthen research and writing skills. A matched treatment-control group design was employed, in which classes
taught at the same grade levels in five participating schools served as the laptop (1 computer per student) and control (5+
computers per class) contexts. Participants included students, teachers, and parents from the two groups. Although systematic
observations revealed relatively few differences in teaching methods between laptop and control classrooms, laptop students
used computers more frequently, extensively, and independently. Writing assessment results showed substantial and significant
advantages for laptop over control students, with six of eight effect sizes exceeding +0.80. Results also showed significant
advantages for the laptop group on five of the seven components of the problem-solving task.
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