Integrating Learning Technologies into the Science Learning Area
Science Learning Area Outcomes
The Science Learning Area Statement and the Outcomes and Standards Framework focus on:
- The development of conceptual understandings of science that students can relate and apply to real world experiences and use as a basis for further development of their understandings. The progression can be broadly described as: moving from concrete to abstract; moving from personal to objective; and reflecting the increasing ability of the student to solve problems and think scientifically with increasing levels of complexity.
- The development of processes of investigating scientifically, where students plan and conduct investigations to collect evidence that can be processed and evaluated.
- Communication using technical language and appropriate genre, including the use of technology to access information and communicate for different purposes to different audiences.
- The application of understandings of science concepts and processes to explain natural and technological phenomena in their daily lives.
- Developing increased awareness and understandings issues, and the need to think and act responsibly in making decisions about these issues.
- An understanding that science is an activity that evolves as a result of human endeavour.
Learning Technologies and the Science Learning Area
The introduction of effective computer based technologies into the science classroom enhance the opportunities for students to achieve the outcomes in the Science Learning Area.
The critical factor will be the ways in which teachers integrate these technologies into teaching and learning activities. This must be driven by the needs of the student and not just by what the technology can do. While there are many different types of learning technologies available to support students' learning, the following focuses specifically on computer based technologies.
The NSW Department of Education and Training has described four main purposes for the use of computer-based technologies in the Science Learning Area. These are:
- As a means of efficiently gaining access to up-to-date information.
- Internet and CD-ROM for current information.
- Interaction with students, teachers, scientists locally and globally.
- As effective tools for practical investigations.
- Probes and data logging systems for increased accuracy and reliability of data collected, efficient and effective high frequency data sampling, remote data collection, reducing repetitive tasks.
- For planning and presentation of findings.
- Effective ways to construct text.
- Planning and collecting data and information using word processors, databases and spreadsheets.
- Communicating information using charts, tables, graphs, photographs, video clips.
- As cognitive tools.
- Supports thinking and problem-solving skills (simulations, engaging scenarios).
- Conceptual understandings (modelling, simulations).
|
