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Cross-case Analysis

The Effects of High-Stakes Accountability on Ubiquitous Computing Initiatives: A Multiple-Case Study

Walter Heinecke
University of Virginia

Accountability Policy Cross-case Analysis Paper Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between state accountability policies and the implementation of 1:1 computing initiatives in middle schools in California and Virginia. Based on research using qualitative and quantitative methods, the paper presents a cross-case analysis of four middle schools implementing ubiquitous computing initiatives. Data collected included interviews, observations, surveys and documents. Results indicated that in across the sites studied, participants felt the pressure of high stakes testing and accountability policies. Participants at the sites felt the accountability and testing policies narrowed their instruction. As a consequence, participants indicated that the high stakes testing policies constrained their ability to effectively use the laptops in instruction.

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