The Impact of Digital Tools on Student Achievement and Motivation in a Middle School Science Class

Download or read book The Impact of Digital Tools on Student Achievement and Motivation in a Middle School Science Class written by Deborah L. DeLucia and published by . This book was released on 2011 with total page 162 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Increased use of technology in the classroom has the potential of helping students shift from the role of passive learners to engaged participants in their own learning. The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of technology tools in 7th and 8th grade science activities would increase student motivation and understanding of science. The literature review found that, when used effectively, technology can have a profound impact on learning and student's understanding of content can increase. This study used both quantitative and qualitative research methods, in addition to incorporated action research to inform classroom decisions about the benefits of using technology. Student survey responses provided insight into the types of technology-based activities students perceived best supported their learning, and the types of activities they felt increased their motivation. Student interviews and pre-and post-assessments were analyzed to determine if student understanding of science content increased due to the use of technology-based activities. The findings determined that students preferred interactive technology activities where they could share their ideas with their classmates. Students agreed that the technology tools they used in science were exciting and the best learning experiences utilized computers or technology. As a result of participation in inquiry-based technology activities, findings for 7th grade students indicated there was no significant increase in science content knowledge; however, the 8th grade findings showed a significant gain in content knowledge. To broaden the scope of this research, it is suggested that future studies be conducted on the impact technology has on student achievement and attitudes toward learning science.