Using Technology to Transform Teaching and Learning: Data-Driven Inquiry and Collaborative Learning in Introductory Astronomy

University Of Oregon Eugene, Eugene OR

Investigators

Abstract

Astronomy (11) This project expands development of data-driven interactive exercises and simulations for use in a collaborative learning environment to cover virtually all topic areas in introductory Astronomy. The motivation is to a) use the naturally engaging character of Astronomy as a vehicle to promote science literacy by integrating research into the curriculum to transform the passive lecture mode into an active learning system that emphasizes scientific process and methodology, b) explicitly create a collaborative learning environment where student teams solve problems and analyze data and c) offer a more engaging interface to science learning so that it becomes an effective recruiting tool for future K-12 science teachers. These goals can be accomplished by the development of robust software, based on real astronomical data sets, that runs in the Web browser environment. Previous work by the team on this project has already produced some of these learning tools. Assessment and evaluation of that effort shows that the methodology is sound. New objectives will be accomplished via further software development and beta-testing in local classes. This will involve approximately 700 students annually on four different campuses. The overall goals of this effort are for the students to be exposed to science methodology by engaging them in the actual practice of science and for them to develop excellent collaboration skills. These outcomes will serve the students far better than the traditional mode of rote memorization of syllabus-driven material that currently constitutes the pedagogy.