The Gaps
There are important aspects of a strong science curriculum, that are not currently being addressed in the majority of online courses.
Focus on both practice & theory
It is relatively easy to deliver theoretical knowledge in an online setting.
The technology to deliver theoretical knowledge is vast
video conferencing (Zoom, Skype, Google Meet)
video recording (embedded in video conferencing apps for ease)
presentation slides (Powerpoint, Google Slides, PreZi)
However, it is much more difficult to provide the practice portion. This is in part because of the lack of technological resources for this portion.
Why does it matter?
The lack of practice currently in online science education is of importance because the majority of learning happens when students are actively engaging in practice.
Hands-on Labs
Students have decreased oppurtunities to hands-on labs when engaging in online instruction.
With the current technology, hands-on labs are difficult to conduct. Reasons for this include:
Safety concerns. It is difficult for an educator to ensure the environment is appropriate to conduct labs, and the student is using proper safety techniques.
Access to supplies. Many students do not have access to the needed supplies and instruments. These supplies can be costly and dangerous.
Why does it matter?
Hands-on labs peak the interest of the students:
"Children develop interest in scientific research in science labs. When they observe various things and carry out different experiments, their reasoning skills are honed and they start thinking deeply on those theories and concepts." - pallikkutam.com
Required in BC Science Curriculum:
Curricular competencies are a focus in BC curriculum. In science most of these competencies are learnt through labs. For example, it is required that Science 8 students learn how to:
"Collaboratively plan a range of investigation types, including field work and experiments, to answer their questions or solve problems they have identified"
"Observe, measure, and record data (qualitative and quantitative), using equipment, including digital technologies, with accuracy and precision"
Collaboration
Students report that their online classes lacked collaboration in comparison to in person classes. (Yates et al., 2021)
Why does it matter?
Collaboration has been linked with level of motivation and understanding of material. (Yates et al., 2021)
"Students need encouragement and guidance to articulate their ideas and recognize that explanation rather than facts is the goal of the scientific enterprise." - Taking Science to School, Chapter 9
B.C recognizes the importance of collaborations and includes in their science curriculum:
"Contribute to care for self, others, community, and world through personal or collaborative approaches"
"Collaboratively plan a range of investigation types, including field work and experiments, to answer their questions or solve problems they have identified"