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Stiglich, Denise, Frances - Research Abstract

Interactive PowerPoint and Online Homework Programs in the Classroom

This project will evaluate the effectiveness of using interactive PowerPoint presentations and an online homework program to increase student learning. Mastering Physics will assist students in evaluating their understanding and allows for immediate feedback, in the form of Socratic-style hints, that lead the students to the correct answer.

Description

This project will evaluate if there is an increase of student understanding through the use of the Mastering Physics program and PowerPoint containing simulations, applets, and tutorials. It is hypothesized that they will more effectively evaluate their own understanding through the tools available to them. The impact of this project can affect colleges if it is proven that these technologies assist the students. Conflicting research exists as to the effectiveness of PowerPoint presentations and the research on Mastering Physics shows student improvement. It is the goal of this project to determine if combining the two technologies will further assist student understanding.

The research questions to be answered are:

1. Are applets, tutorials, and simulations useful in assisting student learning?
2. What effects will obtaining immediate feedback on homework have on student understanding?
3. Is combining the two technologies more effective than using only one alone?

Data will be collected using a variety of activities in two classrooms. One class will be given PowerPoint presentations with textbook problems, while the other will be given both PowerPoint presentations and online homework assignments. The classes will be evaluated using common laboratory experiments, exams, and a writing assignment. Their scores will be analyzed relative to each other and to previously taught classes using only a traditional lecture format.

The results of the research will be presented to faculty at a professional development meeting and at a convention. Research results will be submitted to the Journal of College Science Teaching and Physics Education.