Using ICT in Mathematics and Science

1
Using ICT in Mathematics and Science

• EDUC 4067 Information Technology and Curriculum
• Week 10

2
What is Science?

• Process?
• Content?
• Skill?
• Scientific Method is the process by which
  scientists, collectively and over time, endeavour
  to construct an accurate (that is, reliable,
  consistent and non-arbitrary) representation of
  the world.

3
Scientific Method

• 1. Observation and description
• 2. Formulation of an hypothesis
• 3. Predict quantitatively the results of new
  observations.
• 4. Performance of experimental tests

4
What is a Computer?

• A programmable machine. The two principal
  characteristics of a computer are
• It responds to a specific set of instructions in
  a well-defined manner.
• It can execute a prerecorded list of instructions
  (a program).

5
Science Curriculum in SA

• SACSA frameworks for Science and ICTs
• Middle school science competency
• ICT skills in middle school
• High school science competency
• ICT skills in high school

6
Using ICT in Science

• Calculation devices
• Computer programs for science?
• Observation devices
• Searching for information
• Collaborate with other scientists
• Computer modelling

7
Science Education Goals

• Emphasizing Inquiry
• Scientific Literacy
• Understanding Science concepts
• Integrating IT to support science teaching and
  learning

8
Emphasizing Inquiry

• Collection and analysis of Data
• Use of probes (hardware) and programs (software)
  for analysis
• WEB cams for biology observation
• pH meters for soil or water

9
Scientific Literacy

• Students are curious about everyday experiences.
• The internet and searching websites
• Some internet sites are inappropriate or
  inaccurate.
• Use search strategies such as WEB QUESTS

10
Science web quests

• http//www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/11788/sandm2/weba
  ct.htm
• http//science.uniserve.edu.au/school/tutes/webque
  st/sciwebqu.html
• http//www.ed-dev.uts.edu.au/teachered/edtech/webq
  uests.html
• http//www.what-is-the-speed-of-light.com/webquest
  s/science-webquests-index.html

11
Science Simulations

• http//www.livinggraphs.com/enu/
• http//www.froguts.com/flash_content/index.html

12
Using ICT in mathematics learning

• Motivating drill and practice
• Concretising the abstract
• Fostering mathematical problem solving
• Supporting communication

13
Logo

• http//www.softronix.com
• Programming language designed for young children
• Mathematics and problem solving
• The only language underpinned by educational
  theories

14

• http//www.mathcats.com/contents.html
• Some well crafted materials at
• Mrs Glossers Maths Goodieshttp//www.mathgoodie
  s.com/e.g., Java enabled puzzleshttp//www.math
  goodies.com/puzzles2004/
• Wonderful little factor tree manipulative
  athttp//nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/index.html
• Beautiful Platonic solids(drag and
  rotate)http//www-sfb288.math.tu-berlin.de/vgp/co
  ntent/solids/PaPlatonic.html