Netbook computers as an appropriate solution for 1:1 computer use in primary schools

Abstract

As schools increasingly move towards 1:1 computing, research is required to inform the design and provision of this access. Utilising the Activity Theory (AT) notion of contractions and expansion as a theoretical underpinning, this article suggests netbooks as a viable option to provide 1:1 computing for primary school students. Decisions regarding the appropriateness of the netbooks were made using a modified version of Keegan’s (2005) Functionality / mobility and eLearning / mLearning continuum which categories mobile computing devices. Based on data collected from 119 Year Seven students and their four classroom teachers, the study revealed that the netbooks were considered an appropriate computing device providing an ideal balance between mobility and functionality in meeting the computing needs of primary school students.