Laptop and Desktop Computers
RMC Research Report (extraction)
In spring 2006 and spring 2007 teachers described the laptops and desktop computers as valuable, but they differed on which was more useful for their learning disabled students. Most of the teachers (67%) described the laptops as more useful than the desktop computers in both spring 2006 and spring 2007 because they allowed students to spend a significant amount of time working independently and improving their skills. In spring 2006 and spring 2007 one teacher expressed a preference for the desktop computers, describing them as easier for the students to use; another teacher preferred the desktop computers in spring 2006 because the maintenance and security requirements were reportedly less burdensome.
“The one change I would make is to use mostly PC’s rather than laptop since special education students can be very rough on fragile equipment and PC’s are easier to use for some students. I believe that one laptop to run the active-board and several PC’s would be a better mix for the students that I teach.”
“The student laptops have been used almost entirely in [within] my classroom. It would have been better to have PC’s because the district maintenance is more effective on PC’s and they would not need to be put away daily for safety.”
Teacher Comments
“ . . . the computers are a big boost to those kids who have motor problems with writing.”
“Any time students are on the web they need to be monitored very closely. I would rather be using PC's then laptops because some of my hyperactive students are rough on the keyboard.”