Survey: 93 Percent of Teachers Believe That Personal Devices Connect Students to Real-World Learning

A recent national survey from University of Phoenix College of Education found that 93 percent of K-12 teachers believe that personal tech devices can link classroom learning to real-world activities, and 89 percent expect they will be used in most classrooms in the next five years. The survey of more than 1,000 K-12 teachers from around the country was conducted online by Harris Poll.

Other responses to the survey included the following:

  • Seventy-nine percent of K-12 teachers have allowed students to research subjects using the Internet in class.
  • Sixty-two percent have used games to simulate and supplement learning.
  • Forty-nine percent have used web-based tools to help students improve writing and comprehension skills.
  • Thirty-six percent have allowed students to use tools to produce their own video content.
  • Twenty percent have used have used wikis, blogs or social media to spur student dialogue.
  • Fifteen percent have connected their students to students in another school, city, state or country.
  • Eleven percent have used Skype or other technology to bring in experts who otherwise would not have been able to join their classes.

Kathy Cook, Dean of Technology for University of Phoenix College of Education, said, “Today’s teachers are increasingly tech-savvy in both their personal and professional lives and are enthusiastic about using technology to keep students engaged and excited about learning.”

About the Author

Christopher Piehler is the former editor-in-chief of THE Journal.

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