A case study on advanced technology: Understanding the impact of advanced technology on student performance

While research has focused on the effect of technology on student performance, it is not yet known how advanced technology, such as Promethean boards influence student achievement. The purpose of this mixed-method study was to examine how Promethean boards impact academic performance of elementary school students in third and fifth grade classrooms in a public elementary school in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Six third grade teachers and six fifth grade teachers participated in the study along with the three school administrators. A representative sample of 26 third and fifth grade students also participated in the study. The Measure of Academic Progress Test (MAP) was used to descriptively assess increased student level performance after using Promethean boards. A quantitative questionnaire was administered to all participants in order to measure their perceptions on the impact of Promethean boards in classrooms. Following the questionnaires, and in order to gain a more thorough understanding of participants' attitudes, a qualitative interview was utilized with all participants. Descriptive findings from the before and after MAP scores suggest that Promethean boards may enhance the level of student performance in language arts, reading, and math for third and fifth graders. Regarding use of Promethean boards, administrators reported 85.7% positive feedback on questionnaires and 93.9% in interviews, while teachers observed an increase in student participation and interaction with curriculum when teaching with a Promethean board with 66.6% positive feedback on questionnaires and 97 1% in interviews. Students had positive attitudes and indicated a greater desire to participate in instruction when asked in interviews and surveys about learning with a Promethean board. Questionnaires completed by all participants revealed 57.1% positive feedback and interviews 89.5% positive feedback. Therefore, findings showed the attitudes and perceptions of administrators, teachers, and students were that Promethean boards have a positive impact on performance in the classroom. This data could aid school districts in budgeting allocations pertaining to technology in elementary classrooms Future research projects may include larger samples or scientific studies containing control groups. Comparisons between genders, socio-economic groups, grade levels, learning styles, and the importance of staff development with Promethean boards would also be informative.