Enhancing science with technology

Dr. Mary BrowningZurich International School

B.Sc. In Chemistry from Bristol University, England

Ph.D. in Chemistry from University of Victoria, Canada

Taught A-level Chemistry in Zimbabwe Taught Middle School Science at: Singapore American School Antwerp International School Shanghai American School Zurich International School

Large International School 1400 students from K-12 1200 computers (includes admin/office) 1-to-1 at MS and US (tablets) 1-to-1 started 2 ½ years ago 2:1 at LS Netbooks Grade’s 8-12 take tablets home (started for grade

8 this January)

2 ½ year ago I had never used a lap top

Zurich – smartboards and tablets

The school has excellent IT support

Hands-on science remains the most important part of my science class.

How can technology make the learning better, easier, and more interesting?

1. Use of onenote program 2. Using probes for experimental work

3. Student blogs 4. Teacher blog

1. Students can easily see the outline of the unit (chapter headings)

2. Very easy to use and fast (does not need internet)

3. Work saves automatically 4. Can scan hard copies into it. 5. Goes well with the tablet and pen (but

not necessary to have the pen). 6. Saves paper

Great organizational tool for teachers

Can use it to share information with students if you have a beamer/smartboard

I can be synced with the other science teacher so we can easily share new resources

http://www.youtube.com/user/ZISMS#p/u/4/5LJnncO8dW0

Broadens the range of experiments that can be done in the lab

They can be expensive

If no 1-to-1 program or lack of funds you can still use one probe as a station

Carbon dioxide probe: US $250 International $318

Voltage probe: US $16

Go Link: US $78

Student Example Blog

Example of Student Blog

Example of Student Blog

Example of Student Blog

Work can easily be shared with other students, teachers, and also parents

Alternative to science fair

My Teacher Blog

1. If a student is absent then the experimental work and concepts can be more easily understood by watching a teacher prepared video.

2. The work necessary to be completed is posted there for that week.

3. Websites which enhance the curriculum can very easily be posted.

4. Photos can be posted. 5. Fewer emails sent to absent students. 6. The blog is free and, with a flipshare camera and

a youtube account, videos can be easily made and shared.

Grade 8 students teaching the grade 5 students about climate change

Students showing technology at the school

http://drbrowningscience.wordpress.com/

Page for ECIS conference One Note resources available PowerPoint with video and blog links are

posted Please complete feedback of this session as

a comment on that page.

OneNote program?Use of Probes?Student blogs?Teacher blogs?