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Archived July, 2001
 
Technology and Teacher Education
 
Technology-Based Student Work: The Creation of "Billie’s Story"
an interdisciplinary course, at Vanderbilt’s Peabody College, in molecular biology, science methods and technology which produced a CD-ROM about a fifth grader with a genetic disorder.
 
In May of 1996 six prospective elementary teachers at Vanderbilt’s Peabody College participated in an experimental course that brought together molecular biology, science methods, and technology. A major course requirement was the design and development of an interactive multimedia program that they could use subsequently for their own student teaching. The course was jointly taught by Angelo Collins, a science education professor, and Todd Geary, a molecular biology professor. The goal of this month-long course was to provide these future teachers with the opportunity to develop a theory and practice of teaching science, featuring sophisticated uses of technology, while simultaneously learning substantial content in molecular biology.

The six students worked collaboratively and produced a multimedia CD-ROM about a fictional student named Billie, a fifth grader with the genetic disorder known as cystic fibrosis. The "Billie’s Story" CD-ROM included extensive information on genetics, gene therapy, detection and diagnosis, treatment, and medical ethics, especially as they relate to understanding the cystic fibrosis disorder. In designing the multimedia program and conducting their research for the project, the students made extensive use of the World Wide Web and subsequently included hot links to applicable web sites. The students also planned how they would use their program with middle school students and then carried through with this during their subsequent practicum placements. In addition to creating the CD-ROM, the students made extensive use of an electronic journal for daily reflection on the process of linking science content to theory and practice, with a special focus on issues related to using technology in the classroom.

At the end of the course the students showcased "Billie’s Story" in a public exhibition attended by numerous faculty, fellow students, practicing classroom teachers, and university administrators including the Chancellor of Vanderbilt. Audiences that have seen "Billie’s Story" have been impressed by the intellectual and pedagogical quality of the student product. Many students stated that the experience was the highlight of their educational careers. The students urged the faculty and administration to repeat the course and to provide additional opportunities for students to do similar projects in other classes. The students’ message was clearly heard - a similar integrated course experience is scheduled to be offered again; technology-based design projects have been included in other courses as well.

Learn more about Peabody College at Vanderbilt University.
 
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