Abstract:
The purpose of the research study was to determine the impact of technology
resources, specifically WebQuests, streaming videos, and laboratory manipulatives
for science classroom instruction on student achievement. Student and teacher
perceptions of the use of technology resources to learn the science objectives were
also examined. Three research questions were posed: (a) How does the use of
technology resources, specifically WebQuests, streaming videos, and laboratory
manipulatives for science classroom instruction, influence student achievement? (b)
How does the use of technology resources, specifically WebQuests, streaming videos,
and laboratory manipulatives for science classroom instruction, influence student
motivation to learn science? (c) What are the teacher perceptions about the use of
technology, specifically WebQuests, streaming videos, and laboratory manipulatives
for science classroom instruction? Participants in this research study included 19
seventh-grade students ranging in age from 12-14. The research study extended over
a three-week period. Science achievement tests, attitudinal surveys, and a teacher
journal were analyzed to determine the influence that the various technologies had on
student achievement, student perceptions of science and teacher perceptions of using
technology to teach a unit of study. Data show that the use of varied technology
greatly improved student achievement and their perceptions toward science. The
teacher perception was also improved based on the observations used throughout the
process. Information was presented to the learning community and discussions were
held to create a dialogue to enhance the use of technology in the classrooms through
the use of WebQuests, streaming videos, and laboratory manipulatives.