Correlation Discovery between Student Web Queries and their GPA

In recent years, the K-12 learning space has been utilizing mobile devices to supplement student learning. The question is now begged, if these devices are actually enhancing a child’s capacity to learn? Going deeper, the area that needs inspecting is whether or not the students are using school issued mobile devices to search for school-related information. This study examines high school student web queries performed on school issued iPads using anonymized data from web filter logs. These web queries are first binary classified as either school-related or non-school related using Student Web Query Classifier (SWQC) algorithm created by the authors. Upon completing the classification, this study examines whether a correlation exists between these web queries and student GPA. Based on the regression analysis performed in this study, the null hypothesis, student web queries performed on school issued iPads has no impact on student GPA, is rejected.