Mixed and Added Realities: Development and Use of Web-Based Learning Module for Technology and Natural Science Educators.

Abstract

Teachers and lecturers continue to grapple with the best ways to teach and learn Science and Technology using current information and communication technologies (ICT). This paper presents an introductory process of developing web-based module for technology teacher education students using Web-CT and animation tools for the effective teaching of electro-chemistry that has remained a problem to Natural Science educators in South Africa. Two research questions: how can a web-based learning module be developed to enhance technology education? And what necessary steps can be practically taken in the use of animation to enhance the work of Natural Science educators? were addressed. One main hypothesis: `the use of mixed and added realities involving the development of Web-based learning module and animation enhances the performance of technology and Natural Science educators` was tested. The design was a quasi-experimental type of non-equivalent pre- and post-tests control groups and the mixed method with material development and teaching 58 learners. The main result showed that the approach of this study actually enhanced the performance of the educators and the learners in the experimental group. The study recommends the adoption of the results and increased number of subjects for possible replication elsewhere.