Information and Communication Technologies

• ICT Program of Studies• Integrated into new curriculum

– Science• Computers in schools (2003)-97.7% of elementary and

secondary schools in Canada had Internet connection. • 5 to 1 median ratio of students to computers in Canadian

schools. (4.1 in Alberta)• For more information see Connectivity and

Learning in Canada’s Schools

Underutilized Technology

• While the technology is available in every school, we see little evidence of it being used in science classes.

• This appears to be especially true when we look at high schools

• Technology use focuses more on digital resources than cognitive tools.

Digital Resource versus Cognitive Tools

• Digital Resource– “…computer available information source

containing facts, perspectives, or information on a topic of interest.”

– E.g. NASA News– Anatomy– ESTAT

Cognitive Tool

• Resource presenting information specifically tailored for particular learning goals on a particular topic of interest for learning by a particular target audience.

• E.g. BioKIDS• Virtual Solar System• ESTAT Teacher Resource• WebQuest

Learning Dimensions (page 483)

Learning Dimension Associated TechnologiesLearners think critically about science ideas and/or compare with real life conditions

Modeling, simulations, and visualization tools

Learners critically evaluate and communicate scientific ideas

Online critique and discussion resources

Learners formulate knowledge such as scientific explanations from evidence

Online scaffolding tools

Learners using appropriate tools to gather, analyze, and interpret data

Computer-based collection and analysis

Another Definition of Cognitive Tools (Mindtools)

• Jonassen (1996)- “Mindtools are computer applications that require students to think in meaningful ways in order to use the application to represent what they know.”

What kind of thinking is promoted?

• Critical Thinking– Evaluating, analyzing, connecting

• Creative Thinking– innovative thought, novel approach

• Reflective Thinking– introspective, examines own values and beliefs

Appropriate Technology Integration

• based on the belief that the curriculum and the needs of the learner determine the use of the technology

• requires pedagogical strategies that engage the learner

• takes advantage of the truly unique attributes of the technology

Concept Mapping

is an area of science that

studies

is an area of science that

studies

can be through

can be through cell division that results in

cell division that results in

contain twice the number of

chromosomes of

contain many genes

Genetics

Cell Division

Chromosomes Genes

Meiosis

Mitosis

haploid cells

diploidcells

Simulations/Models

• a constrained environment that allows learners to test hypotheses• provides experiential learning• allow the exploration of phenomena

– E.g Gizmos• Science Education- Class Code- NCZNT4LPRL• Jason Project

• learners can build their own models– E.g. Stella

Internet ActivitiesInternet Activities•BloggingBlogging

– Nobel Intent Nobel Intent •PodcastsPodcasts

– Current Science and TechnologyCurrent Science and Technology•Virtual ExhibitsVirtual Exhibits

– Museum of Science - Boston

Data Collection ProbesData Collection Probes

• VernierVernier

• PascoPasco

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