The Impact of Professional Development on Science Teachers’ Technology Integration: Using Information and Communication Technologies as Cognitive Tools

• In Event: Instructional Technology SIG Paper Session: Information and Communications Technology, Technological Pedagogical Knowledge, Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), and Technology Integration in the Classrooms

Abstract

This project used information and communication technologies (ICTs) as cognitive tools to facilitate middle school science teachers’ technology integration and inquiry-based instruction. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of adopting a situated technology integration framework (new literacy) in science teaching. We worked with 11 middle school teachers in two workshops. They implemented the learning modules for one year with their students. A mixed-methodology is adopted to examine the teachers’ technology integration before and after the PD. We also investigated various factors that affect teachers’ technology integration. The results showed teachers’ changed practices using cognitive tools approach and the administrative support as well as teachers’ ICT skills being the greatest factors affecting teachers’ technology integration.

Authors

• Shiang-Kwei Wang, New York Institute of Technology

• Hui-Yin Hsu, New York Institute of Technology