Trust Projects
Science through Telematics - University of Exeter (Innovative Project)
What is distinctive about this project?
The AstraZeneca-Exeter Science through Telematics (AZEST) project is a study of the feasibility of developing primary school knowledge, understanding and pedagogic skills in the teaching of science using the World Wide Web (WWW) and electronic mail (e-mail) as the means of delivering support. Telematics is a term used to describe the combined use of information technology and telecommunications. A unique feature of the project was the use of pupil concept mapping to assess pupil learning during the course of the project.
Overview
Four subject tasks related to teaching the topic of forces and motion and four tasks related to Science Subject Leadership were developed in the School of Education at Exeter University. Participants worked in pairs on these using the AstraZeneca-Exeter Science through Telematics (AZEST) website. Discussion among project personnel was by means of e-mail and a web-based discussion forum.
Aims
The project's main aims were:
- to develop primary science knowledge and pedagogic skills
- to develop the role of the science subject leader using information and communications technology
Costs
Costs for the AZEST project are not comparable with the costs for the other projects since the substance and schools' involvement was of a different nature.
Achievements
A website was successfully established to communicate subject tasks and other material to teachers, and to provide them with a discussion forum.
The project provided evidence that the AZEST science subject materials:
- enhanced understanding of science concepts and raised their confidence
- increased effectiveness in the role of science subject leader
- improved pedagogic practice through encouraging innovative investigative approaches to the teaching and learning of science
- increased confidence in the use of telematics and their awareness of its potential
- developed pupils' understanding of science concepts
- added to pupils' enjoyment and improved their motivation
Summary
The innovative AZEST project aims to develop primary science knowledge, pedagogic skills and the role of the science subject leader using information and communications technology. The AZEST project explored whether the facilities that the internet offers could be harnessed to:
- deliver successfully subject materials designed to enhance the teaching and learning of science
- promote debate amongst the participating teachers concerning the use and usefulness of the materials provided
The project was designed with:
- a clear curriculum focus on the topic of forces and motion at KS1 and KS2, chosen because it was felt that teachers would value support in this aspect of the curriculum
- a clear subject leadership focus on support materials that were formulated to help co-ordinators develop the knowledge, understanding, skills and attributes needed to provide effective science leadership
What others say
- "The fact that there is now a website which is dedicated to science teaching in primary schools on a local level, is excellent. I hope that the site will continue to function and that we will be able to communicate with tutors at Exeter University - for their expertise and resources, and with our SSL colleagues for feedback, support and ideas." Science co-ordinator
- "Everyone became so involved we even discussed progress (but not design secrets!) at the last govornors' meeting." Science co-ordinator
Additional
Using the web
In this innovative project, science tutors at the University of Exeter were working with teachers in six primary schools in Devon to explore the potential afforded by the use of the WWW and e-mail for delivering support materials and disseminating good practice in the teaching of primary science.
Participants were enthusiastic about this as an approach to working and communicating with one another, recognising that it opened up innovative ways of discussing and sharing the issues that face all primary schools wanting to improve their teaching of science.
Contact
Direct e-mail: N.C.Skinner@exeter.ac.uk