英文摘要 |
In this study, we integrated a simulated game and a computer-based modeling tool into the Sustainable Marine Unit to assist the scientific modeling process. Students constructed concept maps after using the two computer-supported learning environments. The study was conducted in central Taiwan, with 50 students in two seventh-grade classes. Data collection included concept maps and the students’ biology school achievement. The concept maps were scored based on three dimensions, namely “number of elements,” “dynamic relationship” and “complexity.” The study found that after completing the simulated game, the students were mostly at level 1 in terms of “number of elements” and “complexity,” and after using the computer-based modeling tool, they had large gains in these two dimensions. Nonetheless, in the “dynamic relationship” dimension, 74% of students achieved the highest level of “conditional increase or decrease” at the completion of the simulated game. After the use of the computer-based modeling tool, a small increase of 6% existed. The simulated game could support the understanding of the “dynamic relationship,” while the computer-based modeling tool could improve the “number of elements” and “complexity” further. The performance of the high-achieving and low-achieving students on the concept map was also analyzed. Results showed that after using the computer-based modeling tool, the highest level of the three dimensions of “number of elements,” “dynamic relationship” and “complexity” increased for both groups. In other words, the computer-based modeling tool could narrow the learning gap between high-achieving and low-achieving students. This study also provides suggestions for integrating computer-supported learning environments into scientific modeling-based instruction and the relevant assessment. |