Enhancing science using ICT

Will ICT make the lesson easier, better or different? ICT should be chosen as a resource only if it will support the lesson�s learning objectives (Betts, 2003). Used appropriately, ICT can enhance learning and teaching, for example, by providing animations and video clips of scientific concepts which can help students� understanding of scientific phenomena. ICT can be particularly useful for hard-to-teach topics by providing �concrete� examples of phenomena that are difficult to observe in a school laboratory or difficult to test using traditional experiments.

The Secondary National Strategy identifies the main applications of ICT in science as:

• simulations and modelling
• data logging
• databases, spreadsheets and graphical calculators
• information resources
• publishing and presentation software.

Simulations and modelling
ICT can give students and teachers an opportunity to use a model to change variables and investigate the effects in situations that are difficult to create in the classroom. For example, the teacher uses an animation to enable students to visualise the principles of an electric motor; within the animation, the current and field direction can be changed and the effects observed to improve students� understanding of how a motor works.

Data logging
Data logging helps students to record, present and analyse results. For example, when students use data loggers and light gates effectively in recording and displaying information about the movement of objects, this may well make a topic such as momentum more accessible.

Databases, spreadsheets and graphical calculators
These applications allow students to see data visually as well as organise, search, sort and display information in order to explore relationships, look for patterns and test hypotheses. For example, using a spreadsheet to model reaction speed and stopping distances of cars or using a database of planet data to investigate possible relationships between the variables, such as distance from the Sun and temperature, or distance from the Sun and period (orbit time).

Information resources
Using the internet and CD-ROMs, students are able to develop their knowledge and understanding of science. For example, students visit the Energy Saving Trust website to look at how energy is used in the home and actions that can be taken to reduce energy consumption. Then they can visit the Act on CO2 website and make use of the carbon calculator to measure their own carbon footprint.

Energy Saving Trust: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
Act on CO2: http://actonco2.direct.gov.uk/index.html

Teachers may also use information resources to enrich their teaching. For example, introducing video clips to start a lesson can make the subject topical and relevant by showing science in the real world. News stories can introduce activities looking at How Science Works.