Genevieve Casey August 19, 2005
PV STEMNET

Abstract: Implementing Imaging Technology into Teaching

Problem Statement:

When fourth grade students begin writing scientific observations, they are not very experienced. Their observations are often made during a moment in time. They are not use to making observations in great detail, thus they find comparing their observations to later observations challenging.

Motivation:

Students will be motivated to use their photos to enhance their written observations and record the changes that occur in their “one square yard”. The imaging will also be a tool for those students who have difficulty using written observations to express their understanding and learning. These students will have more opportunity to use the photos to communicate orally about their observations and comparisons.

Approach:

Each student will:

• Take notes and make drawings of visual and tactile observations of “one square yard” in a journal (once a month for 10 months or several times throughout the school year).
• Take pictures of his/her “one square yard” at each visit.
• Generate questions and choose one for an inquiry project.
• Make an observation page on a word document that includes his/her photo(s) for each visit that will later be made into a book and/or power point presentation.
• Makes comparisons using both written and photographic observations.

Results:

I expect that each student will:

· Learn to make more detailed scientific observations by using the images that they created

· Learn to use observations and digital images to make comparisons

· Learn how to capture and manipulate digital images

· Learn how to create a word document that incorporates digital imagery

· Have a sense of ownership and pride for what he/she has learned and produced

· Learn how to create a basic PowerPoint project

Conclusions:

The scientific observation, data collection, inquiry and research skills that students will be introduced to will give them a foundation that will help them to further develop these skills. The computer skills that they learn will prepare them for more advanced projects in the future.