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SLT Group

Science and Learning Technologies (SLT) –            why is this important?

 

The 21st century requires key competencies significant to success in professional, social, and personal life like no other century before. These new competencies were triggered by the rapid change in the way people communicate, share information, and acquire knowledge.

 

With relation to science education, the development of interactive web 2.0 and cloud applications together with the development of mobile devices, such as laptop computers, electronic pads, and smart phones, can enhance teaching and learning in schools (Barak & Ziv, 2013) and higher education (Barak et al., 2007). 

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) can serve as tools for visualization (Barak & Dori, 2011), creating learning communities (Barak & Rafaeli, 2004), enhancing conceptual understanding (Barak & Dori, 2005), and for promoting higher order thinking skills among students (Barak & Dori, 2009). As ICTs and new learning methods evolve, science teachers are expected to integrate rich and exciting learning environments. However, studies show that although many teachers are aware of the potential of ICTs, many still adhere to traditional, teacher-centered instruction (Barak et al., 2011; 2016; 2017).

 

There are several barriers to effective implementation of new practices and ICTs in science education. Lack of motivation or resources are some of the obstacles. But in many cases, science teachers refrain from applying new practices because they themselves had little exposure to advanced instructional methods in science and engineering universities. As graduate students, they are mostly subjected to traditional teaching, including lectures, exercise sessions, and laboratory work. It is therefore the responsibility of teacher educators to set examples for innovative ways for teaching and learning science.

קבוצת המחקר שלנו- מדע וטכנולוגיות למידה.
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