Technology Enhancing Kindergarten Students’ Literacy Skills in Math

Abstract

I planned my methods and procedures in an effort to gain understanding of how technology affects instruction and learning of reading and writing in mathematics. I also focused my research on determining the impact that incorporating technology into mathematics can have on motivation in learning. In order to explore the impact technology can have on math instruction; I randomly selected three five year old students from my kindergarten classroom for a six week time frame during the Fall of 2014. I collected data through use of a variety of observations, audio tools, assessments, and interviews, as participant’s utilized technology in a consistent approach during mathematics instruction. Several findings were determined based on the research from this study. It was found that IXL, an online resource allowing students to practice specific mathematical practices, allowed for read aloud accessibility and positively enhanced independence and excitement among learners. Students used a variety of strategies that differed from their peers, to communicate problems to their solutions. Each learner modeled growth in a variety of ways. Literacy skills are able to flourish with consistent use of technology to enhance young learners and their exploration of its correlation to mathematics. Results from this study may assist educators in the importance of use of technology in mathematics, and its significant role in literacy practice.