Abstract
Laptops were designed in the late 1970s, with the first functional machines appearing in the 1980s for use by executives, as a second, portable machine, allowing them to work on long journeys or at home. Although never designed to be used by children, or those starting to learn to use computers, laptops are now finding their way into primary and secondary schools, with an estimated 142,000 laptops in schools in 2002. The use of laptops in primary schools is not yet widespread in the UK. However, we have conducted a pilot study in 6 schools, comprising observations and interviews with teachers and pupils, to discover how the machines are being used and problems faced by the young users. Such a study provides a contemporary example of the appropriation of technology and adaptation of working practices.