Volume 2 Number 1: Multimedia in Education

Published: 30 March 2009

Responsible Editor: Noémi Szállassy

 


1. Transferring Best Practice From Undergraduate Practical Teaching To Secondary Schools: The Dynamic Laboratory Manual

Timothy G. Harrison, Dudley E. Shallcross, William J. Heslop, John R. Eastman, Anthony J. Baldwin

Astract. Pre-laboratory work has been shown to be an effective investment at undergraduate level in chemistry at the University of Bristol. A Dynamic Laboratory Manual (DLM) has been developed to allow undergraduate students to rehearse practices using virtual experiments, video clips and a range of assessment support. The DLM has been shown to be highly successful in its goals. In this paper we describe the development and implementation of a DLM appropriate to post-16 students at school or college which also has applications in teacher training courses. First results from evaluation are presented which show an improvement in practical skill and cognition.

Received: 11 February 2009, accepted: 16 February 2009

Pages 1-8.           Download PDF


2. Proposing a Mathematical Software Tool in Physics Secondary Education

Konstantinos B. Baltzis

Abstract: MathCad® is a very popular software tool for mathematical and statistical analysis in science and engineering. Its low cost, ease of use, extensive function library, and worksheet–like user interface distinguish it among other commercial packages. Its features are also well suited to educational process. The use of natural mathematical notation and built–in measurement units are its two major advantages in teaching and learning. In this paper, its complementary use in the upper secondary physics education in Greece is explored. In order to demonstrate its application in the teaching process, a set of representative examples are presented. The main features and advantages of the software are also pointed out. The paper aims to present the benefits of the application of mathematical information technology tools in secondary physics education. In this effort, MathCad® is probably the most promising solution.

Received: 12 February 2009, accepted: 16 February 2009

Pages 9-18.           Download PDF


3.Using Programming Environments in Teaching GIS Concepts

Imre Bornemisza, Pavel Boytchev

Abstract: When teaching Geographical Information Systems (GIS) it is important to explain the theoretical elements, but it is also necessary to illustrate the basic functions with examples. To help students it is advisable to separate the teaching of fundamentals from the practical application of complex GIS software. A simple programming language like Logo creates opportunities for acquiring knowledge in an easy way. The development of a program makes it possible to understand the most important categories. If the program contains query functions as well, students can learn more about problem solution methods. This paper also demonstrates the power of the Logo family of languages which is delivered by different implementations. Elica Logo is used to build simple GIS tools that provide a very wide range of educational problems and lead to numerous ideas for further explorations. The nice intuitive 3D interface is an attractive approach to gain and retain student’s engagement in the learning process.

Received 28 February 2009, accepted 18 March 2009

Pages 19-28.           Download PDF


4. Three dimensional illustrating - three-dimensional vision and deception of sensibility

Noémi Szállassy, Anita Gánóczy, György Kriska

Abstract: The wide-spread digital photography and computer use gave the opportunity for everyone to make three-dimensional pictures and to make them public. The new opportunities with three-dimensional techniques give chance for the birth of new artistic photographs. We present in detail the biological roots of three-dimensional visualization, the phenomena of movement parallax, which can be used efficiently in making three-dimensional graphics, the Zöllner- and Corridor-illusion. There are present in this paper the visual elements, which contribute to define a plane two-dimensional image in three-dimension: coherent lines, the covering, the measurement changes, the relative altitude state, the abatement of detail profusion, the shadings and the perspective effects of colors.

Received 2 March 2009, accepted 23 March 2009

Pages 29-36.           Download PDF


5. Blended learning experience in teacher education: the trainees´ perspective

Monika Černá

Abstract: The article deals with blended learning in the context of pre-graduate English language teacher education. Firstly, the concept of blended learning is defined, then, the attention is focused on the online component of a blend, namely on the issue of interpersonal interaction including the challenges, which learning through online networking poses. Finally, results of a small–scale research are provided to offer insights into teacher trainees´ perspective of the blended learning experience at the University of Pardubice, Czech Republic.

Received 6 March 2009, accepted 17 March 2009

Pages 37-48.           Download PDF


6. Professional scientific blog

Tamás Beke

Abstract: The professional blog is a weblog that on the whole meets the requirements of scientific publication. In my opinion it bear a resemblance to digital notice board, where the competent specialists of the given branch of science can place their ideas, questions, possible solutions and can raise problems. Its most important function can be collectivization of the knowledge. In this article I am going to examine the characteristics of the scientific blog as a genre. Conventional learning counts as a rather solitary activity. If the students have access to the materials of each other and of the teacher, their sense of solitude diminishes and this model is also closer to the constructivist approach that features the way most people think and learn. Learning does not mean passively collecting tiny pieces of knowledge; it much more resembles ‘spinning a conceptual net’ which is made up by the experiences and observations of the individual. With the spreading of the Internet more universities and colleges worldwide gave a try to on-line educational methods, but the most efficient one has not been found yet. The publication of the curriculum (the material of the lectures) and the handling of the electronic mails are not sufficient; much more is needed for collaborative learning. Our scholastic scientific blog can be a sufficient field for the start of a knowledge-building process based on cooperation. In the Rocard-report can be read that for the future of Europe it is crucial to develop the education of the natural sciences, and for this it is necessary to act on local, regional, national and EU-level. To the educational processes should be involved beyond the traditional actors (child, parent, teacher) also others (scientists, professionals, universities, local institutions, the actors of the economic sphere, etc.). The scholastic scientific blog answer the purposes, as a collaborative knowledge-sharing forum.

Received 28 February 2009, accepted 18 March 2009

Pages 49-58.           Download PDF


7. Utilisation of 2nd generation web technologies in master level vocational teacher training

Péter Tóth

Abstract. The Masters level Opportunities and Technological Innovation in Vocational Teacher Education project (project site: http://motivate.tmpk.bmf.hu/) aims to develop the use and management of virtual learning environments in the area of vocational teacher training, drawing on a well established international partnership of institutions providing both technical and educational expertise. This paper gives an overall picture of the first results and products of the collaboration. We touch upon the goals, the assessments and the learning process of using “Multimedia and e-Learning: e-learning methods and tools” module in details. The main cooperative and collaborative devices are presented in virtual learning environment. The communication during collaborative learning, the structured debate on forum and the benefits of collaborative learning in VLE are interpreted at the end of this paper

Received 12 February 2009, accepted 18 March 2009

Pages 59-68.           Download PDF


8. The opinions of the kindergarten teachers in relation to the introduction of computers to nursery schools: Preliminary approach

Irene Sivropoulou, Aggeliki Tsapakidou, Argyris Kiridis 

Abstract. Computers were introduced in Greek kindergartens of our country with the new curricula for kindergarten (Inter-disciplinary Integrated Framework of Study Programs OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE HELLENIC REPUBLIC (376΄t.B/18-10-2001, article 6) in order to contribute to the spherical growth of children and to extend their learning. In other words it is intended that the computer will increase the interests and the motives for learning, to encourage active learning, to strengthen the dynamics of visualization, the importance of feedback, the possibility of monitoring and the possibility of connecting the school activities with extra curricula activities in order to strengthen the social and cultural dimension of kindergarten. Nevertheless technology cannot in itself, bring the sought after change in preschool education. Kindergarten teachers are the key for the successful use of computers in kindergarten. However, while kindergarten teachers in certain countries approve of the introduction and use of computers and believe that education with computers is developmentally suitable for small children, in other countries the attitude of kindergarten teachers towards computers is rather negative. This negative attitude of kindergarten teachers relates to their knowledge of computers and how often they use them or is it related to cultural factors and the prevailing educational philosophies? These questions led us to attempt to investigate the opinions of kindergarten teachers in Thessaloniki in regard to the introduction of new technologies in kindergarten. The research is made up of three interactive parts. It begins with the theoretical discussion about the introduction of computers in kindergarten, an investigation of the opinions of 122 kindergarten teachers using a questionnaire made up of 33 questions follows and it ends with the interpretative analysis.

Received 21 March 2009, accepted 23 March 2009

Pages 69-80.           Download PDF


9. Teaching English through Mass Media

Vilma Tafani

Abstract: This article aims at analyzing the importance of using Mass Media in the classroom and finding the ways how to use Printed and Audio-visual Media. It is the result of an in-depth study, surveys and questionnaires thus trying to make the ideas in this article more trustworthy. It is based not only on the literature review but also on long personal experience. It is a brief description of some practical examples and some tips for novice teachers. Further more, this article tends to deal with some of the key issues of using media in the classroom. Here are included some of the findings of my research work on a post-doctorate Fulbright Program in 2001. The following issues are open for discussion: the importance of Media in general and in education in particular; Media are persuasive and pervasive, newspapers, magazines, radio, television and internet in the classroom, etc.

Received 22 February 2009, accepted 19 March 2009

Pages 81-96.           Download PDF


10. Learning and e-materials

Dušan Krnel, Barbra Bajd

Abstract: This paper addresses the use of e-materials in learning. Under pressure from the public, which is becoming increasingly conversant with IT, schools and also other non-formal types of learning are changing into e-classrooms and e-learning. Among parents and teachers, too, there is a widespread opinion that e-learning is more motivating and is more effective.  On the other hand, a mass of research shows that e-materials are more effective only in specific areas, where a multimedia approach is needed, for instance in ophthalmic surgery, while everywhere else they are comparable to traditional teaching and learning in terms of both effectiveness and motivation. The paper also highlights the methodological problems of measuring motivation and learning success. Finally it presents e-material which was created taking into account the results of research in this field.

Received 6 March 2009, accepted 26 March 2009

Pages 97-108.           Download PDF


11. A case study of university students' use of flickr photographic networking to develop confidence, English language fluency and shape world consciousness

Steven Graham

Abstract: One class of 4th year English major students who are part of the Bachelor of Education program at Udon Thani Rajabhat University volunteered to participate in a project designed to increase their writing fluency whilst exposing them to different people and cultures in Southeast Asia. A secondary objective was to give an enjoyable task based exercise in the use of computers and the internet, with the social responsibilities that this involves. This project was designed to give these students the chance to investigate different cultures and to promote their own in a safe environment by using the Flickr photographic networking program on the internet; to make contact and exchange ideas and cultures with students from Bali, Hong Kong and Japan. At the time of writing, this is still a work in progress; however, early indications are that students have benefited from this type of social interaction as they are experiencing better understanding of other cultures and beliefs, whilst increasing their computer skills. In addition, this project has widened the horizons of many of the students resulting in what is hoped to be a more pragmatic view of the environment, humanity and equity, beyond sustainability.

Received 16 February 2009, accepted 2 March 2009

Pages 109-114.           Download PDF


12. E-learning – an alternative to traditional learning?

Ivana Cimermanová

Abstract: The article discusses the issue of e-learning courses as an alternative to traditional face-to-face courses or the support of the face-face courses. The main aim of the article is not to decide which alternative is more effective, but to find out whether there are students with particular learning style who are pre-disposed to e-learning. There were eight hypothesis postulated and tested in the research. However, we bring only four of them in this article. Hypothesis were verified by means the statistical analysis of a pedagogical experiment and results gained in the standardized questionnaires. The data were elaborated by the statistical software SPSS. The final conclusions are formulated based on the results of the research achieved by the author of the article.

Received 23 February 2009, accepted 24 March 2009

Pages 115-126.           Download PDF


13. Multimedia CSCL Tools And Methods From A Knowledge Building Perspective

Dorian Stoilescu

Abstract. This paper discusses modalities of meaningful use of multimedia sources in Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) theory and the design of CSCL software tools. A discussion about main similarities and differences between the concepts of networking, coordination, cooperation, and collaboration is presented at the beginning. These concepts are compared with Knowledge Building. After presenting CSCL concepts and tools, the paper focuses on the use on video tools on computers and handhelds, ideas and practices that take place in today’s CSCL video researches. In the final, an evaluation about the contribution of handhelds in CSCL and KB educational practices is discussed.

Received 26 February 2009, accepted 25 March 2009

Pages 127-136.           Download PDF