Article Summary: Technology integration applied to project-based learning in science (#6)

ChanLin, L. (2008). Technology integration applied to project-based learning in science. Innovations in Education and Teaching International, 45(1), 55-65.

This article is a qualitative study of a project-based project undertaken by fifth graders in Taiwan. The students were ages 10 -11 and were participating in an extracurricular science camp. The students were divided into cooperative learning groups of 4-5 to conduct the research. The project required a field trip, conducting research using the Internet, reporting data through web pages, working with Microsoft Word, Excel, a digital camera, and a photo publishing software.

The project was based on constructivist educational theory. Students were observed throughout the project using interviews and video recordings. The students and their teachers learned through the process. Some of the general conclusions were:

1) Students needed more time to learning the hardware and software before the project – there was significant student frustration with the technology.
2) Students needed coaching on how to work within a group effectively –
3) Teachers were and needed to be willing to learn from the students during the process
4) The learning goals of this project were successful – but careful planning of the learning experience is essential