Teaching with Technology: Applications of Collaborative Online Learning Units to Improve 21st Century Skills for All

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Teaching with Technology: Applications of Collaborative Online Learning Units to Improve 21st Century Skills for All
Language: English
Authors: Terrazas-Arellanes, Fatima E., Strycker, Lisa A., Walden, Emily D., Gallard, Alejandro
Source: Journal of Computers in Mathematics and Science Teaching. Oct 2017 36(4):375-386.
Availability: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education. P.O. Box 1545, Chesapeake, VA 23327. Tel: 757-366-5606; Fax: 703-997-8760; e-mail: info@aace.org; Web site: http://www.aace.org
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 12
Publication Date: 2017
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Middle Schools
Descriptors: Electronic Learning, Online Courses, Educational Technology, Active Learning, Inquiry, Scientific Literacy, Middle School Students, Science Instruction, Randomized Controlled Trials, General Education, Faculty Development, Middle School Teachers, Grade 6, Grade 8, Learning Disabilities, STEM Education, Comparative Analysis, English Language Learners, English (Second Language), Second Language Instruction, Cooperative Learning, Teacher Education, Statistical Analysis
Geographic Terms: Oregon, Georgia
ISSN: 0731-9258
Abstract: Inquiry-based learning methods, coupled with advanced technology, hold promise for closing the science literacy gap for English learners (ELs) and students with learning difficulties (SWLDs). Project ESCOLAR (Etext Supports for Collaborative Online Learning and Academic Reading) created collaborative online learning units for middle school science to meet the needs of ELs, SWLDs, and general education students. In a randomized controlled trial with 1,451 students, 28 teachers implemented one of two online units in their classrooms after completing a Web-based professional development course. Results showed that treatment condition students, including ELs and SWLDs, significantly improved science knowledge compared to controls; ELs' gains indicated a knowledge gap reduction compared to general education students. Findings suggest that quality science curriculum and effective technology practices can help all students learn science and prepare for future global scientific challenges.
Abstractor: As Provided
Number of References: 22
Entry Date: 2017
Access URL: https://www.learntechlib.org/p/178279
Accession Number: EJ1164500
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Inquiry-based learning methods, coupled with advanced technology, hold promise for closing the science literacy gap for English learners (ELs) and students with learning difficulties (SWLDs). Project ESCOLAR (Etext Supports for Collaborative Online Learning and Academic Reading) created collaborative online learning units for middle school science to meet the needs of ELs, SWLDs, and general education students. In a randomized controlled trial with 1,451 students, 28 teachers implemented one of two online units in their classrooms after completing a Web-based professional development course. Results showed that treatment condition students, including ELs and SWLDs, significantly improved science knowledge compared to controls; ELs' gains indicated a knowledge gap reduction compared to general education students. Findings suggest that quality science curriculum and effective technology practices can help all students learn science and prepare for future global scientific challenges.
ISSN:0731-9258