Using System Dynamics Computer Modeling Software to Teach Cause-Effect Relationships in Reading Selections
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Authors
Eckleberry, Virgil V.
Issue Date
2002
Type
Article
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of system dynamics computer modeling software would affect student ability to recognize cause-effect relationships in reading selections. Pre- and posttests were administered to measure changes in reading comprehension and a pre- and post-intervention Likert Scale survey was administered to determine changes in student attitudes relating to the use of computer software in reading instruction. A performance rubric was also used to gauge progress specifically related to using system dynamics computer modeling techniques for identifying cause-effect relationships in reading selections. The setting was an inner city gifted center and the participants were fourth and fifth-graders who attend the center one day per week. System dynamics strategies were used to examine reading selections and, as the culminating activity, STELLAª computer modeling software was used to model diagrams of the causal relationships within stories. Because of the one-group pretest-posttest design, no conclusive results could be obtained, however, it was concluded, based on observations and data, that the ability of students to recognize cause-effect relationships in selected readings improved as a result of the intervention.
Description
Citation
Eckleberry, V. (2002). Using system dynamics computer modeling software to teach cause-effect relationships in reading selections. "Action Research Exchange", 1(1). Retrieved from http://chiron.valdosta.edu/are/Artmanscrpt/vol1no1/eckleberry_am.pdf
Publisher
Valdosta State University College of Education