Evaluating the use of laptop computers in teaching construction computer applications at the College of Technology, Bowling Green State University

by Luhamba, John K.

Dr. Alan Atalah, Advisor This study aimed to evaluate the use of laptop computers as an aid in teaching construction computer applications in the Construction Management program at Bowling Green State University (BGSU). The study was conducted during two semesters. A questionnaire was developed and was used as the primary tool for data collection. Two groups of students were identified as participants in the study. One group was enrolled in the CONS 320 Construction Computer Applications course and was issued laptop computers by BGSU. The second group of respondents was made up of CONS 320 students that were not issued laptop computers; and a random selection of students from the Construction Management program. Efficacy of the data collection instrument was tested through a pilot study that was conducted during the first semester. This researcher aimed (1) to evaluate the learning experience of the respondents, (2) to investigate the respondents’ vision of the pilot laptop computer initiative in the Construction Management and Technology program, and (3) to draw guidelines for the full implementation of - laptop computers as part of the Construction Program for the College of Technology at BGSU. The study was limited to construction management students at the BGSU College of Technology. The research suggests that a laptop computer was beneficial to respondents and recommends implementation of the use of laptop computers (henceforth referred to as the “laptop initiative”) during the students’ junior year of study. BGSU is mandating the CMT students purchase laptop computers.