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Session 2620

The Internet Science Institute and the Incorporation of Laboratory Experience with Web-based Education

Suzanne Keilson, Duane Shelton, Elliot King, Randy Jones, Lester Coyle Loyola College, Baltimore, MD, Departments of Electrical Engineering and Engineering Science/Computer Science/Writing and Media/Physics/Mathematics

Abstract

Rapid advances in Web technology have created an opportunity to involve students in the scientific method in an affordable and attractive manner. This project’s focus is the incorporation of laboratory experience with Web-based educational modules. The materials are integrated into a Web site, http://isi.loyola.edu., the Internet Science Institute (ISI).

Educational materials developed on the pilot grant are summarized. The topic of the first module developed was pendulum motion. It has been discussed elsewhere.

To add lab experience to Web learning, the Interactive Web Board (IWB-1) was developed. The IWB-1 has data acquisition via the audio port of a standard PC, which allows the computer to monitor all activity performed on the board, thereby serving as an "instructor". The IWB is a breadboard that may be used to construct electronic circuits. It is also possible to use it as a general data collection device for science experiments.

An example of a new module for the ISI covers topics in robotics and control systems. The module utilizes the LEGO-Dacta system and its focus is on the roles played by sensors, actuators, feedback, and software elements in the design of a robotic system.

The equivalent of the scientific method in applied math is the building and testing of math models. One application is in modeling the prices of investments; i.e. "Mathematical Finance". The first level of this applied math module develops the ideas behind pricing an option on a stock. The module incorporates HTML with Java applets to help with calculations.

Evaluating the efficacy of Web-based educational materials requires a multi-faceted evaluation scheme. The first tier evaluates how materials have been incorporated into the learning experience. The next tier evaluates usability in three ways: (a) Observers are given fixed- question data sheets. (b) Observers record more qualitative observations. (c) A survey is administered to the student users, which collects demographic information and opinions. In the final tier, students take pre-and post-tests to see if learning goals were achieved.

Materials from this project will be packaged so that they can be examined and downloaded from the project site, and also made available via CDROM.

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Keilson, S. E., & Jones, R., & Coyle, L., & King, E., & Shelton, D. (2000, June), The Internet Science Institute And The Incorporation Of Laboratory Experience With Web Based Education Paper presented at 2000 Annual Conference, St. Louis, Missouri. 10.18260/1-2--8500