Involving students in scientific modeling practice is one of the most effective approaches to achieving the next generation science education learning goals. Given the complexity and multirepresentational features of scientific models, scoring student-developed models is time- and cost-intensive, remaining one of the most challenging assessment…

A quasi-experimental study was set up in secondary education to study the role of teachers while implementing tablet devices in science education. Three different classroom scripts that guided students and teachers' actions during the intervention on two social planes (group and classroom level) are compared. The main goal was to investigate which…

Acquisition of conceptual knowledge is a central aim in science education. In this study we monitored an interdisciplinary hypermedia assisted learning unit on hibernation and thermodynamics based on cooperative learning. We used concept mapping for the assessment, applying a pre-test/post-test design. In our study, 106 9th graders cooperated by…

This study was designed as a confirmatory study of work on "productive failure" (Kapur, "Cognition and Instruction," 26(3), 379-424, 2008). N = 177, 11th-grade science students were randomly assigned to solve either well- or ill-structured problems in a computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) environment without the provision of any…

Most faculty will agree that students must learn to write well (Emerson, MacKay, MacKay, & Funnell, 2006), and in the sciences, a variety of approaches have been taken. In the College of Physical and Engineering Science at the University of Guelph, we have developed a way of embedding research, writing, and analytical skills into an…

This study has three major purposes, including designing mobile natural-science learning activities that rest on the 5E Learning Cycle, examining the effects of these learning activities on students' performances of learning aquatic plants, and exploring students' perceptions toward these learning activities. A case-study method is utilized and…

Engaging students in science learning can be challenging, and incorporating new forms of technology into science has been shown to provide creative learning experiences. However most technology enhanced learning and e-Science experiences to date have been designed and run by researchers. There is significant challenge in moving these experiences…

Describes two types of star charts commonly available for astronomical viewing and outlines a strategy by which teachers can have students use a computer spreadsheet to prepare their own easy-to-use star charts appropriate for the location, date, and time of viewing. (Author/MKR)

Investigates the effects of selected characteristics of a web-aided instructional simulation on students' conceptual change, problem solving, and transfer abilities. Conducts a two-pronged research study with (n=117) students enrolled in a beginning meteorology course at Iowa State University. Compares three groups--with-log group, without-log…

Discusses the work of Beatrix Potter as an artist and natural scientist. Presents three classroom projects which integrate technology, fine art, aesthetics, writing, and science. (MG)

This case study identifies the feasible approaches to integrate laptops into a science learning environment in middle school. The observation of learning activities and teaching strategies took place in the 8th grade science classroom with seventeen students for five class periods and data from the teacher's opinion gathered by interview. The…

Describes a science project at Booker T. Washington Middle School #54 (New York City) where seventh and eighth graders computed the Hudson River's water quality using ClarisWorks spreadsheets and MicroWorlds software. Students gained technology skills and public recognition, as well as scientific and environmental information. Includes sample…

Botany meets computer science in this activity, which challenges students to create a computerized seed catalog. Class members work together to develop a database of plants, much like the major seed companies do. (PR)

Discusses the following questions in choosing distance education courses: Will I be able to "talk" with the instructor? Will I be able to talk with other course participants? Does the course include laboratories or other hands-on experiences? What equipment will I need to participate? What technical assistance will be available? Who is the course…

Provides an introduction to new educational technology. Describes interactive video as a means to enhance learning not to improve teaching. Outlines some of the fears, apprehensions, and antipathies associated with this technology and suggests ways to alleviate them. (CW)