Evaluating with Multimedia ToolsEvaluating with Multimedia Tools

Harouna Ba

EDC Center for Children & Technology

www.edc.org/CCT

Evaluation GoalsEvaluation Goals

Impact of a Complex Multimedia Science Project on Students’ Experiences and Learning– Diverse population of students

MethodsMethods

Print: interviews, surveys, and questionnaires, classroom observations, and inquiry tools

Video-assessmentOnline databases: journals, message

boards, and chat.

Multimedia Tool AffordancesMultimedia Tool Affordances

Print: – Contextual information– Students’ learning

Video-assessment and online databases: – Reliability issues– Complexity of students’ learning– Technology use

Major FindingsMajor Findings

JASON IMPACT ON TEACHERS

JASON changes teaching practice in terms of collaboration, project-based learning and alternative assessment.

JASON increases teachers’ use of technology.

Major Findings (Cont.)Major Findings (Cont.)

JASON IMPACT ON STUDENT LEARNING– JASON hands-on and environmental exploration

activities are engaging and appealing to the students.

– JASON curriculum makes science real and relevant.

– Most JASON students acquired scientific inquiry and analytical skills, and outperformed non-JASON students.

Major Findings (Cont.)Major Findings (Cont.)

COMMON CONTEXTUAL ISSUES AND CHALLENGES

– Curriculum– Teachers– School and district requirements

Major Findings (Cont.)Major Findings (Cont.)

– The success of JASON depends on the teacher. • The project attracts teachers who take a

hands-on approach to science and enjoy learning new subjects.

• The project gives teachers ideas for labs and activities.

• The project requires dedication and innovation on the part of teachers.

Major Findings (Cont.)Major Findings (Cont.)– The JASON curriculum is

adaptable.• Teachers pick and choose activities from

the curriculum. • Teachers select activities that support

state and district standards. • Teacher reuse activities.

Major Findings (Cont.)Major Findings (Cont.)– District and School constraints

impeded the process. • Even inexpensive materials add up in cost

when used with many students. • Schools/districts do not always pay for

training for all JASON teachers. • Teachers have no time to coordinate

interdisciplinary projects with other teachers. • Lack of access to technology prevents

teachers from taking advantage of online resources.

• Stressed teachers cannot integrate new material into existing curriculum.