Document Type
Conference Item
Publication Date
1-1-2008
Abstract
This paper discusses the need for communication in learning science, and whether online learning tools could address this need. The learning of science should emphasize the scientific process as well as science knowledge. The scientific process occurs when a community of peers collaborates and discusses a problem. Science learners in schools should be given opportunities to collaborate and discuss in order to construct their own knowledge. When participating in scientific discussions, learners have the opportunity to use scientific verbal knowledge to build their understanding of scientific concepts. At the same time, the teacher scaffolds and provides opportunities for patterning and modeling. However, there is insufficient time for communication in the science classroom. Computer-mediated communications tools enable the scientific process to be extended outside the classroom. With these tools, collaborative learning can be carried out through synchronous or asynchronous communications. The collaborative learning tasks for science in this paper were designed using Merrill's First Principle of Instruction. The benefits and affordances of the communication tools are taken into account in task design. The use of online learning tools, such as discussion forums and wikis, scaffolded by text messaging through mobile devices, were considered useful for designing a collaborative mobile learning environment. A collaborative mLearning environment which uses collaborative online tools while the learner is mobile improves the learning of science based on the social constructivist theory of learning.
Divisions
Education
Event Title
International Conference Educational Innovation
Event Location
Kuala Lumpur
Event Dates
6-8 May 2008
Event Type
conference