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Edited by Dr. Lynne Schrum, University of Utah
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| formerly Journal of Research on Computing in
Education |
Volume 37 Number 3 Spring
2005
The Effect of the “Ohio
Schools
Going Solar” Project on Student Perceptions of the Quality of Learning
in Middle
School Science
Mark van’t Hooft
Kent State University
Abstract
In an era of continuing developments in science and technology,
teachers are
faced with an increasingly challenging task of helping K–12 students
become
and remain scientifically literate. Effective science instruction
involves activation
of prior knowledge, hands-on learning, and continuous reflection.
Technology
has the potential to play a supporting role, and the Ohio Schools
Going Solar
project (OSGS) is one example of what is available. This study
examines the
effect of the OSGS project on student perceptions of the quality of
science
learning as defined by Newmann’s framework of authentic intellectual
work. Results
indicate a positive effect in the areas of disciplined inquiry and
construction
of knowledge. (Keywords: alternative energy, solar energy, student
perceptions,
middle school science.)
Contributors
Mark van ‘t Hooft provides technical support in the SBC Ameritech
Classroom
and helps conduct research in various RCET-sponsored studies
(http://www.rcet.org).
His main research focus is on the use of handheld computing devices in
K–12
education and preservice teacher education. Prior to his work at RCET,
Mark
taught middle school and high school social studies and language arts
in Texas.
He holds a BA in American Studies from the Catholic University of
Nijmegen,
the Netherlands, and an MA in History from Southwest Texas State
University.
He is currently finishing his doctoral degree with a dual major in
Curriculum
and Instruction, and Evaluation and Measurement at Kent State
University.
Contact
Mark van ‘t Hooft
Kent State University
Research Center for Educational Technology
201 Moulton Hall
Kent, OH 44242
mvanthoo@kent.edu
Copyright © 2005, ISTE (International Society for Technology in
Education).
All rights reserved.
| Ohio Schools Going Solar, Project on Student Perceptions of the Quality of Learning, Middle School, Science |
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