English language learners (ELLs) experience linguistic, cultural,
and cognitive shifts that can be challenging and at times lead to
isolation for ELLs. While education technology may be an instructional resource and engage learners, devices alone do not
shift instructional practices or lead to student gains. This case
study was performed at an international school in Europe to
investigate the experiences of 4th-grade ELL students and their
teaching in a 1-to-1 iPad device classroom. Three main findings
emerged from the study: iPads have specific functionalities that
can be used to support ELL students; ELL students were engaged
with using the iPads in content lessons; and study participants,
including teachers and students, perceived language and cognitive growth in ELL students when using the iPad. However, there
were also challenges found in the study. To mitigate some of these
challenges and build on the success of this study, the researcher
suggests developing a common vision for technology integration,
using collaborative models of ELL teaching and investing in professional development.