Hi-Tech Classrooms: Using Technology to Engage Students in Inquiry Learning

GEARS: Georgians Experiencing Astronomy Research in Schools

Michelle DavisLithia Springs High SchoolDouglas County Schools

Goals

➲ Get students involved with data analysis through guided inquiry investigations.

➲ Use technology to engage students & make working with data easier, even for those needing remediation.

GPS Standards➲ SCSh3. Students will identify and investigate

problems scientifically. a. Suggest reasonable hypotheses for identified

problems. b. Develop procedures for solving scientific

problems. c. Collect, organize and record appropriate data. d. Graphically compare and analyze data points

and/or summary statistics. e. Develop reasonable conclusions based on data

collected. f. Evaluate whether conclusions are reasonable by

reviewing the process and checking against other available information.

GPS Standards

➲ SCSh4. Students use tools and instruments for observing, measuring, and manipulating scientific equipment and materials.

a. Develop and use systematic procedures for recording and organizing information.

b. Use technology to produce tables and graphs. c. Use technology to develop, test, and revise

experimental or mathematical models.

Why Use Technology?➲ Students are growing-up “plugged-in” &

technology reaches them on their playing field.

➲ Research shows that using technology enables all students, especially low income, ESOL & special needs students to achieve at higher levels.

➲ Allows students to conduct high level experiments they would not have access to otherwise.

➲ Can allow participation in real science—collect & analyze data important to current scientific research.

CLASS KeysSM

CLassroom Analysis of State Standards

The Georgia Teacher Evaluation System

Rubric for Technology Use

Designs lessons & performance tasks that require students to integrate technology

Uses technology for whole group instruction or rewards

Does not use technology

Actively involves all students in using technology

What Type of Technology?

Computers

Calculators

Probe-ware

Rapid Response Systems

Let's Get Started...

TI 84+

EasyLink

Light Probe+ =

Astronomy Themed Summer Workshops: Chem., Physics, Phys. Sci. GPS

➲ High School Teachers Only This Year➲ Search for Life in the Universe➲ Sun Earth Connection: Space Weather➲ Stars: Formation of the Elements➲ Crash, Bang, Galaxies!➲ Email gears@colstate.edu for information➲ http://cheller.phy.georgiasouthern.edu/gears

This workshop funded by NASA Office of Education Grant NNX09AH83A and supported by the Georgia Department of Education, Columbus State University, and Georgia Southern University