Teachers’ Perspectives on Utilizing iPads to Support Students ' Literacy Skills in Primary Schools.

Abstract

This study’s major goal was to investigate teachers' perspectives on utilising iPads to support primary school students’ literacy skills in Saudi Arabia. To reach the research’s aim, questions have formulated, and qualitative study was conducted by online interviews with nine primary school teachers who had different experiences and taught various subjects. The interviews were conducted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic; all schools and public facilities where the interviews could have been conducted face-to-face were closed. Primary school teachers utilising iPads in the classroom in the educational process were chosen to gain a deeper understanding of their perceptions of utilising iPads to support students’ literacy skills. Four topics were discussed: the effect of iPads use on students’ literacy skills; the teacher’s role; the challenges facing teachers; and teacher training. This study’s results indicate that the use of iPads encouraged, improved and developed students’ literacy skills. However, there were some negative aspects of using the iPads, which affected the students’ handwriting and spelling. The teachers had an important role in providing guidance and counselling to students in using the iPad.