Action Research Design Outline

What is the topic of your action research?

My action research project focuses on integrating technology through the use of iPads in Pre-K classrooms. This topic is important to me because, as a preschool teacher, I see firsthand how much young students struggle with using technology—from navigating simple tasks to developing basic computer literacy. I truly believe that incorporating technology can significantly enhance students’ academic growth and better prepare them for future learning.

What is the purpose of your study?

The goal of this study is to support students in developing foundational academic skills, strengthening their computer literacy, and preparing them for the types of technology they will use in kindergarten. By introducing iPads and other digital tools early on, students can become more confident and independent in navigating educational apps, following digital instructions, and engaging in interactive learning activities—skills that are increasingly essential in modern kindergarten classrooms.

What is your fundamental research question?

In what ways does the integration of iPads in preschool classrooms influence students' academic development?

What is your research design? Qualitative, quantitative both (mixed-methods) Why?

I plan to use both qualitative and quantitative research methods in my study. I believe that combining these approaches will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the impact iPad integration has on preschool students. Quantitative data will help measure specific academic outcomes and track student progress, while qualitative data will offer deeper insights into student behavior, engagement, and the learning process. Together, these methods will not only strengthen the validity of my findings but also help me understand why the results are effective.

What is the most appropriate type of data to collect?

For my quantitative data, I will collect:

Pre and Post assessments
App Performance Reports
Checklist for Skills Gained

For my qualitative data, I will collect:

Teacher Observations
Student Interviews
Anecdotal Notes

What types of measurement instruments will you use?

Due to collecting both quantitative and qualitative data, I will be collecting both formative and summative assessment, which include:

Formative:

A checklist to document student engagement, independence, and use of iPad-related skills during learning activities
Students express how they feel about using the iPad for learning.
Quizzes

Summative:

App-generated performance reports to track student progress and accuracy in educational games or activities
End of unit assessment to measure academic growth in areas such as early literacy and math skills

What is the focus of your literature review?

The focus of my literature review is to explore how the integration of technology, specifically through the use of iPads, can enhance academic skills in early childhood education. This review will examine existing research on the impact of iPad use in Pre-K classrooms, including its effects on early literacy, numeracy, engagement, and digital literacy development.