Effective Use of Software in the Middle School Chemistry Classroom Persuasive Essay by scribbler

Effective Use of Software in the Middle School Chemistry Classroom
A proposal for a middle school biology and chemistry curriculum that incorporates virtual lab activities and experiments.
# 153178 | 728 words | 5 sources | APA | 2013 | US


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Description:

This paper proposes a middle school biology and chemistry curriculum integrating activities from both the Discovery Channel School Life, Earth, and Physical Science programs, as well as the e-Physical Science Chemistry Activities ImagiLab. The paper describes how the Discovery Channel virtual lab resources would be utilized in biology classrooms to simulate interactive laboratory experiments and the Chemistry Activities ImagiLab would offer students the chance to experiment with hazardous chemicals in a safe, virtual environment. The paper discusses how integrating computer simulations can result in improved learning, critical thinking skills and problem-solving strategies, but also addresses the challenges to technology integration in classrooms. The paper explores what implementation of this new curriculum will involve and concludes that research has found a correlation between increased technology integration in the classroom and increased student learning and enjoyment.

Outline:
Curriculum
Strategies That Support Technology Integration
Potential Challenges
Standards Integration
Effective Implementation
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The majority of students now grow up with access to high-tech computers and toys. Integrating technology into the classroom is not only natural for these 21st century students, it may be necessary in order to hold their attention. In chemistry and biology courses at the middle school level, studies show that integrating computer simulations can result in improved learning, critical thinking skills, and "problem-solving strategies" (House, 2002).
"Challenges to technology integration within middle school biology and chemistry classrooms should be limited. In those cases where a child does not have access to a computer at home, there will be a steeper learning curve. There will also be a learning curve for students who are accustomed to using a different type of computer than those provided in the classroom; however, this adjustment period should be minimal. In addition, there may be children with learning styles more attuned to readings or lecture, in which case teachers may want to occasionally offer students the choice between a lab and reading activity. Overall, variations in technology skill levels and competence, as well as differing learning styles, are likely to be the only challenges faced by students and teachers with respect to the new curriculum."

Sample of Sources Used:

  • Coggs Smith, A. (2002). Natural Chemistry with Technology. NEA Today , 20 (5), 7.
  • Finley, S. (2005). Products for Science Teachers. MultiMedia & Internet@Schools , 12 (5), 30+.
  • House, J. D. (2002). The Motivational Effects of Specific Teaching Activities and Computer Use for Science Learning: Findings from the Third International Mathematics and Science Study. International Journal of Instructional Media , 29 (4), 423+.
  • Smetana, L., & Bell, R. (2006). Simulating Science. School Science and Mathematics , 106 (5), 267+.
  • T H E Journal. (2008). WestEd, Quantum Receive $2.8 Million Grant for AI Research. T H E Journal , 35 (8), 16.

Cite this Persuasive Essay:

APA Format

Effective Use of Software in the Middle School Chemistry Classroom (2013, May 05) Retrieved June 03, 2023, from https://www.academon.com/persuasive-essay/effective-use-of-software-in-the-middle-school-chemistry-classroom-153178/

MLA Format

"Effective Use of Software in the Middle School Chemistry Classroom" 05 May 2013. Web. 03 June. 2023. <https://www.academon.com/persuasive-essay/effective-use-of-software-in-the-middle-school-chemistry-classroom-153178/>

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