Abstract:
The purpose of the research was to determine if the use of technology tools in the health
classroom would impact fifth-grade learners. The instructional unit was taught over a
four week time span.
The instruction took place through a series of class activities including lecture, guided
whole-group instruction, guided small-group instruction, individual and group Internet
exploration, revision of case studies, construction of a health newsletter, maintenance of a
both a nutrition and fitness tracker, and the completion of a technology-related survey.
Thirty-four participants completed all activities.
Findings suggest that students benefit from the use of technological tools. Participants
indicated an overall satisfaction with the use of technology tools and a willingness to
participate in similar units of instruction.
The results of the study were communicated to the learning community through a
celebration of unit completion. The celebration took place both in the gymnatorium and
in the cafeteria. Students were treated to a PowerPoint presentation, displaying the
results of their work and a session of fitness games. Certificates of completion and free
passes for bowling and skating were handed out to all thirty-four participants. Upon
moving to the cafeteria, students were divided into groups and allowed to construct their
own trail mix concoctions and smoothies. This celebration helped both students and
teacher to discuss their learning in a more casual environment and enjoy a bit of "fun"
time away from the classroom.