Chapter 11 - Technology in Mathematics and Science Instruction

Introduction
Efforts to reform teaching and learning in Science and Math are at the center of the national standards movement. U.S. elementary students perform well compared to other nations but that performance diminishes as our students progress through school.

See Top Ten Strategies for Technology in Math and Science Instruction page 326

Challenges in Implementing the Principles and Standards for School Mathematics

1. Teachers should consider an appropriate combination of off and on computer activities.
2. They should consider technology as a mathematical tool rather than a pedagogical tool.
3. Third they should view technology as a tool for developing student thinking.

Researchers concluded that math software, particularly programs that promote experimentation and problem solving, enables students to embrace key math concepts that are otherwise difficult to grasp.

Technology Integration Strategies for Mathematics Instruction

(Figure 11.1 page 329)

Using Virtual Manipulatives

Benefits

• Supports hands-on activities for learning mathematics.
• Offers flexible environments for exploring complex concepts.
• Provides a concrete representation of abstract concepts.

Fostering Mathematical Problem Solving

NCTM defines problem solving as "engaging in a task for which the solution method is not known in advance."

Regardless of how many math facts, skills or procedures students learn, the true value of math is realized only when students can apply their knowledge to solve problems. Technology is a tool for solving problems. To prepare mathematically powerful citizens for the future, learning to solve problems using mathematics and appropriate technological tools is essential to education at all levels.

Benefits

• Helps students gather data to use in problem solving.
• Provides rich, motivating problem solving environments
• Gives students opportunities to apply mathematical knowledge and skills in meaningful contexts.

Mathematical problem solving does not need to resemble work! Riverdeep's Zoombinis Logical Journey is made up of numerous puzzles in a colorful and engaging environment that allows students to use logic, data analysis, algebra and graphing concepts as if they were playing a game.

Allowing Representation of Mathematical Principles

Research has shown that the use of graphing calculators can improve students' understanding of functions and graphs as well as the interconnections among the symbolic, graphical and numerical representations of problems.

Interactive or dynamic geometry software provides students with an environment in which to make discoveries and conjectures related to geometry concepts and shapes. Instead of memorizing facts or concepts, students can explore and arrive at conclusions on their own.

Benefits

• Makes abstract mathematical concepts more visual and easier to understand.
• Gives students environments in which to make discoveries and conjectures.

Implementing Data-driven Curriculum

Technology provides an ideal means of developing student knowledge and skill related to data analysis.

Benefits

• Provides easy access to many data sets.
• Provides real statistics to support investigations that are timely and relevant.
• Supports development of student knowledge and skill related to data analysis.
• Allows for exploration and presentation data in a graphical form.

Supporting Math-Related Communications

Benefits

• Allows easy contacts with experts.
• Promotes social interaction and discourse about mathematics.
• Allows teachers to reach other teachers for the exchange of ideas.

Motivating Skill Building and Practice

Benefits

• Provides motivating practice in foundation skills needed for higher order learning.
• Provides guided instruction within a structured learning environment.
• Delivers instruction when teacher may not be available.

Examples: Boxer Math, PLATO Learning, Waterford Early Math and Science

Figure 11.11 (p. 337) lists some useful websites for mathematics instruction.

Issues and Problems in Science Instruction

Growing concern - declining number of students (especially females and minorities pursuing studies in math, science, and engineering fields). America faces a growing crisis in leadership for much-needed science/technology/math/engineering initiatives.

New Emphasis on Controversies About Scientific Inquiry

Approaches commonly adopted in the classroom:

• Technology is viewed as a tool, much like a pencil or pen, but considerably more powerful.
• Use of technology is primarily taught in the context of solving problems.
• Students help one another with the mechanics of technology; in fact, in many classrooms, students are the local experts on technological details.
• Talk about and around technology is as important as the technology itself, just as talk about how one finds and uses information is as important as the information itself.
• Technology is used to augment communication by expanding audience (e.g., over networks and by producing hard copy) and expressive options (e.g., mixing graphs and words).

Technology Integration Strategies for Science Instruction

(See Figure 11.12, page 338)

Supporting Authentic Science Experiences

Technology can be used to teach specific elements of the scientific inquiry process:

1. Locating information to investigate scientific issues and questions.
2. Collecting data.
3. Visualizing data and phenomena.
4. Analyzing data.
5. Communicating results.

Benefits:

• Provides resources needed for doing each phase of authentic science activities.
• Some Internet projects provide environments that support all phases of an authentic science project.

Supporting Science Concept Learning

Benefits:

• Allows simulating and modeling of scientific processes.
• Provides opportunities to engage in problem-solving activities.

Students often have difficulty understanding complex scientific concepts, especially when they are only presented in text as non-moving static images. Simulations and animations can make those concepts clearer.

Assessing Science Information and Tools

The Internet has opened up a world of opportunities for learning beyond the classroom. Students can control a Rover like ones on Mars or operate a telescope or camera from the space shuttle. The Internet also is an invaluable resource for up-to-date science information. Teachers can also use the Internet for assistance with content knowledge and for professional development opportunities that may not be available locally.

Benefits:

• Allows access to unique tools and collections of information.
• Expands opportunities for learning.