Digital tools in the Swedish language curriculum : A qualitative interview study on students’ perspectives on the use of digital tools in writing instruction

The purpose of this study is to investigate which experiences middle school pupils have towards the use of digital tools in the Swedish subject area with focus on writing processes. Furthermore, the purpose also includes investigating what previous research says about the use digital tools in writing process regarding motivation and writing development. In order to achieve this aim, the following study used both qualitative and quantitative methodological approach, containing semi structured interviews as well as a questionnaire survey. The interviews and the survey consisted of two informants from year four and 17 informants from year four and five. This study is based on a phenomenografic and sociocultural perspective whereas the digital tools can be seen both as a phenomenon and a mediating artifact for the pupil’s motivation. Results from this study suggests that digital tools can indeed increase pupil’s motivation in the writing process. The pupils felt more motivated when they had the opportunity to write on a computer instead of with pen and paper. The pupils did not feel that they learned better with the use of digital tools, however, they felt that they could perform better when writing on the computer. The main reasons for the increased motivation and ability to perform within the pupils in this study was the availability of spelling program, music, search engines and less strain on the hands.