External barriers affecting the successful implementation of mobile educational interventions

Abstract

This article presents lessons learnt about the implementation of an innovative 1:1 tablet initiative in three Portuguese lower secondary schools. We analysed 99 questionnaires, 7 focus groups, 3 interviews and 11 field notes. Findings reveal 15 external barriers that need to be addressed if such initiatives are to become sustainable and fully embedded in educational practice: ICT infrastructure, hardware, software, physical learning spaces, digital textbooks, curriculum, assessment, provision of professional development, training programs, time, timetabling and technical support. Implications for current and future practice include important lessons for educational stakeholders who are working with or considering the integration of technology into their schools or education systems.