Sherry Hsi Center for Innovative Learning Technologies Designing Ubiquitous Computers for Learning: An Early Study with Palms

C I L T Research Sponsors ImagiWorks Palm Computing

C I L T Innovative K-12 Learning Scenario Home Internet Virtual teachers Knowledge Network: NetCourses, Modeling tools, Case studies Lesson Plans Data sets Students at Remote Schools Field notes Image sensors Real-time data collection

C I L T Research Trajectories Design –New pocket computers, hardware –Interactions, UI to support learning –Informal, formal learning environments Learning –Promote inquiry around rich content –Linking classroom knowledge with real world knowledge On-line guidance, scaffolds Embedded assessments Remote mentoring New framework for “design for learning”

C I L T Evolving framework of “design for learning” User-centered design Learner-centered design Learner and Social context design ??

C I L T Hypothesis for Ubiquitous Computers Low cost Ubiquitous access Good activities Good curricula Good teaching will reform education.

C I L T Study #1: Alameda Creek Project

C I L T Instructional Goals Improve student understanding of ecosystems, biology, links to other discipline Improve students inquiry skills Linking students’ classroom knowledge with out of classroom learning Capitalize on technology for multiple learning context (formal and informal) Build students understanding of the nature of science (theory-building, using evidence)

C I L T Powered by WISE

C I L T Building Models of Water Quality

C I L T Classroom Lab Activities with Palms

C I L T Field Trip with Palms

C I L T Preliminary Results Students improve their understanding of acquatic ecology conceptsecology concepts Students have a more complex understanding of ecosystemscomplex understanding Need more field support and guidance –Link between web and probes –Need holistic view into student work Need more education applications for Palms

C I L T Contact Information Sherry Hsi Pocket computers research: Center for Innovative Learning Technologies:

C I L T Pre-post Subject Matter Test

C I L T Pre- Concept Map

C I L T Post- Concept Map