Learning Science in a Collaborative and Technological Environment

Abstract

Schools sometimes have to address many contemporary challenges simultaneously. In the Quebec province (Canada), a new competency-based state curriculum in science and technology, the integration of ICT and new collaborative pedagogical methods are some of these challenges to be addressed. This situation leads us to radically reconsider the way we design learning environments and select our teaching methods. That is the conclusion that was made at Dalbé-Viau High School (Québec) and led us to design a collaborative educational learning environment called PEAi (Programme d’Enrichissement des Apprentissages Informatiques).

For three years now, Dalbé-Viau High School designs and develops, improves and sustains such learning environments that are based on collaboration among high school students. Each of these classes contains six interactive whiteboards facing work islands of 4 or 5 students with a laptop for each.

Learning science is done through challenges, problems and projects. To address these challenges and solve these problems, students use computer tools that are at their disposal (computers, interactive whiteboards, the Internet, cameras, etc.) and through discussion and interaction. This collaboration between team members is however the central characteristic of the learning environment. Indeed, it allows them to confront their initial conceptions and sometimes produces the productive uncertainty that is needed for learning and for the validation of their understanding.