Hypothesis Identification Article Analysis

Essay by Lomuscio2 September 2008

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A hypothesis is a proposal that answers observations or facts by requiring researchers to investigate further in order for the hypothesis to be true. I have chosen an article that has to do with technology. In this paper I will attempt to explain the hypothesis and answer on whether the hypothesis was accepted or rejected. If the hypothesis was accepted I will also attempt to explain the implications of the experiments findings.

HypothesisIn today's world technology is widely used, from the use of computers for businesses and personal use in the home, to listening to music with mp3 players and iPods. While the use of technology is banned for most schools, in 2004, Duke University decided to conduct an experiment to see if the use of iPods could enhance a students learning. Duke University's hypothesis was that the use of an iPod had many benefits such as; a student would be more committed and interested in class activities, projects and discussions; a student would have access to digital recordings, and an iPod is more convenient to store digital content.

Duke University believed their hypothesis to be true that the University gave their 2004 freshman class free iPods. In the foreign language classes at Duke University, the iPods were used for quizzes, poetry and songs, recording journals, and feedback from the instructors (Lacina, 2008).

Acceptance or Rejection of HypothesisAlthough most schools ban the use of technology in the school, some schools decided to accept Duke University's hypothesis with surprising results. Researchers conducted four different studies in two middle schools and two elementary schools from both urban and rural areas to see how the use of an iPod can improve reading, writing and other skills, with the English Language Learners, ELLs, students. In three of the studies an improvement was...