Cluster-wide Cyber Science Class

While reading through Lowe's article on Problem-based learning in teams for a cluster-wide cyber Science class (2007), I remembered a student of mine from couple of years ago, who did a project with other students overseas (one from Australia and another from New York) and ultimately winning a global award - I can't quite remember exactly what it was, but it sounded pretty cool.

What they had done was they had invented a device to recycle electricity that was used at home. Again, I don't remember what they had worked on, but I remember being astonished from amount of organisation that had gone through their work - I mean, working with people who are on the other side of the world and winning a prize never seemed possible. I had no idea of how they would have overcome the distance and time difference. However, now, knowing about the Web 2.0 technology, I just realised how possible this is.

In the Lowe's article, teams of yr10 G&T students were brought together through ICT community and face-to-face camp to carry out an problem-based investigation.

Several findings fascinated me.

First, how the students showed a positive improvement in their attitude and enjoyment of Science. Because of the nature of problem-based learning, G&T students would easily engage themselves into learning. Relating their knowledge to their everyday life is a key factor in learning especially for teenagers.

Second, although the author had pointed out some difficulties such as timetabling issues and finding venues for the students to work in while managing a 'virtual' class, it seemed feasible. I had thought of incorporating technology as extra work but once it's set up, it would be less for the teachers.

I'm interested to find out, however, if this sort of methodology would work on 'mainstreamed' students. These students are generally less motivated and engaged than G&T students. Secondly, how PBL would suit NZ Science Curriculum. For Junior Science at Secondary level, it might be feasible to do such activity as a unit or an assessment but for Senior level, it is difficult to incorporate this into NCEA achievement standards. It will require careful planning and structuring - and may also need the Ministry's intervention.

Overall, I liked the idea of using technologies such as wiki and video conferencing as tools for the students to work in groups online and one day, I hope to use it to enhance my teaching and students learning.