Digital Reader: Using A Cell Phone to Explore and Engage with Informational Texts

Abstract

This study explored the use of a cell phone to search for informational texts while using different websites. This study investigated a student’s critical thinking process as she engaged in discussion with the researcher regarding her research findings. This study was conducted for five weeks, and was implemented for two days per week with a seventh grade student. Qualitative data were collected through field notes, student artifacts, and audio recordings. Findings were then derived from the research related to student behavior and engagement, choosing appealing and appropriately challenging texts, and utilization of critical thinking skills. The student’s interests influenced her research, topics were chosen based on her Funds of Knowledge, and her critical thinking skills evolved as she engaged with informational text.