“Something Wicked This Way Comes”: Curriculum Integration With Multimedia Simulations in Chemistry Learning

• In Event: Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: STEM Teaching and Learning

Abstract

We report a qualitative study examining teacher integration of a curriculum sequence that incorporated interactive multimedia simulations designed to support learning of kinetic molecular theory and associated topics in high school chemistry classrooms. Analyzing integration as a wicked problem, we explore how four teachers, with their 222 students, implemented the curriculum units. Wicked problems are complex, and resist simple solutions. Using data including teacher web logs, student log files, and teacher exit interviews, we explore how different teachers incorporate the same materials into their pedagogical practice, highlighting the role of teacher professionalism in the process of curriculum integration.

Authors

• Catherine E. Milne, New York University

• Ruth N. Schwartz, Quinnipiac University

• Jan L. Plass, New York University

• Bruce Douglas Homer, City University of New York

• Trace Jordan, New York University

• Steve Yavner, New York University

• Tzuchi Tsai, New York University

• Anna Gustava Brady, New York University

• Ethlyn Saltzman, CUNY - Graduate Center