Integrating ICT in science learning.

In Science is interesting to consider how technology is used. What I have seen in the past few weeks shows a few different uses.

1. electronic presentations for notes.
2. interactive whiteboards/power-points to illustrate concepts or engage students.
3. sources of research.
4. videos with or without associated worksheets/tasks.

Using power points saves me time writing on the board, allows me to have students read and hear information, while at the same time allowing me to specifically mark or circle or elaborate on what I want them to write down. It can draw straight lines on the board that I can fill in, and students can have copies of the tables to fill in (removing time spent on routine tasks).

The interactive board allows me to do things like: explain the structure of the atom, and then demonstrate how different aspects change when you add or remove protons, electrons and neutrons. Using games and activities such as those on eChalk makes a big difference to students potential understanding, ability to visualise concepts, as well as enhancing engagement in the topics taught.

Letting students research online is not very different from letting students use textbooks or encyclopaedias, but it can give room for a serious discussion about credibility and sources of information.

Videos with or without worksheets are another way for students to engage with material. they tend to bring in the real life applications or contexts into the classroom.

In my next post I will look at some specific examples of use, perhaps around chemistry eChalk activities.

eChalk: http://www.echalk.co.uk/