Computers to Supplement Instruction in Science

The purpose of the study was to compare the results of traditional and computersupplemented laboratory methods. Horticulture and Applied Biology and Chemistry students at a large comprehensive high school in Southeast Georgia participated in the action research study. Student attitudes, teacher attitudes and student performance were measured using journal entries, observations, surveys, and post-tests. Both groups received similar instruction and preparation for laboratory activities in plant science, but the Applied Biology and Chemistry students completed computer-supplemented labs using BioBLAST while the Horticulture students completed traditional plant science labs. Results on the data collection instruments showed favorable student and teacher attitudes to the computer-simulated experiments. Results on the post-tests did not show a significant difference from one group to the other. BioBLAST and other computer simulation programs are recommended to fulfill state objectives and national recommendations for incorporating technology into science and vocational instruction. The results of the study were communicated to the learning community through a meeting with teachers and administrators. This meeting contributed to the current organizational climate of incorporating technology into instruction and fulfilling all state objectives.Brovey, Andrew J.Zahner, JaneLeader, Lars F.Ed. S.Instructional Technolog