New Directions in Science Teaching Online: Value adding with ICT

Abstract

Conducting scientific investigations and thinking scientifically are among the most complex intellectual activities that learners can pursue, yet the teaching of science in general has not fully adopted innovative and constructivist approaches to develop these skills. In addition, progress towards the practical, widespread implementation of technology to support constructivist teaching approaches have been limited. Where there is a smaller number of leaders who do embrace newer educational theories and attempt to incorporate research findings in their teaching, there continues to be a substantial gap between educational research and development projects and actual practice in science teaching overall. This paper discusses present barriers to adoption of ICT in science teaching, current thought on how ICT can transform science teaching and how technologies can support the development of scientific understanding.