Cumbee, C. M. V. (2017). Elementary teachers’ use of technology for teaching and parent communication in low socio-economic classrooms: A case study (Doctoral dissertation). Available from ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global database. (UMI No. 10263560)

Abstract:

“Rural areas have less technology access due to an inadequate amount of income and limited internet bandwidth availabilities, perpetuating the digital gap between rural schools and schools in urban or suburban locations. The problem addressed in this study is that U.S. legislation requires all public school students to be prepared to function in a technology-driven society, yet socio-economically disadvantaged students and parents are less likely to have technology access outside of school. The purpose of this qualitative case study was two-fold, and sought to investigate rural elementary teachers’ experiences of: 1) utilizing technology to teach low socio-economic students with diverse needs and little or no technology access outside of school; and, 2) using technology in parent-teacher conferences with parents who have limited or no technology in the home. The sample included ten teacher participants. All participants are certified teachers currently employed at the rural school study site teaching in grades first through fifth. Participants completed an open-ended, qualitative, online questionnaire about technology practices in the classroom. Findings revealed that there were barriers with the quality, rather than the quantity of technology used in rural, low-income schools, which included slower internet speeds and technology delivery issues. Barriers to communication with families included family’s lack of cell phone access and affordability. Despite technology barriers, it was found that technology increased student engagement and motivation in learning. One suggestion for future research is to conduct a quantitative study to assess technology usage in rural schools within low income communities in the state where this study was conducted and in rural areas across America.”