| Popis: |
This study examined technological intervention as a means of bridging the gaps existing between traditional educational products and the society’s needs. Specifically the research focused on such an intervention within the context of the Jamaican educational system, where currently a need exists for the development of technology enhanced products specifically designed to support their Resource and Technology curriculum. As a consequence, the primary goal of this investigation was to ascertain if an online course could be developed for integration into the learning environment of Jamaican schools. Such a course would function as a locus for improving and enriching traditional instructional policies and practice by supporting the national curriculum and addressing the needs of the teacher and learner in a specific cultural context. To facilitate integration, the course would have to be adaptable to the current educational technology available within the education system.This research was implemented in two phases: (a) the development of a research instrument; and (b) the evaluation of the research instrument. In the first phase the researcher designed and produced the research instrument Let’s Design, a multi-media online course for students in the age cohort 12-15 years. This unit of instruction was guided by the aims and objectives of the Jamaican national curriculum and grounded in current learning theories of constructivism. It introduced students to concepts of design by providing opportunities for them to develop designing skills.In the second phase, the instrument was evaluated by a group of 18 teachers in the Jamaican education system for its usability and curriculum alignment and compatibility. Feedback from the evaluation acknowledged the Let’s Design online course viability as a way of enriching the teaching/ learning environment of Jamaican classrooms. The development of this multimedia program is still in its preliminary stages requiring further evaluation primarily with students. It however, provides a foundation for future research in the development of instructional technology and the integration of communications technology in Jamaican classrooms. |
