Professional Learning Goals

• Gained proficiency in the use of probeware and related technologies so that these tools can be effectively integrated into the classroom
• Identified specific curriculum expectations in the SCH 4U and SPH 3U courses for which the use of probeware-based lessons and activities would be appropriate and enriching
• Developed some probeware-based lessons/activities that would enhance inquiry and increase student engagement
• Delivered the lessons and evaluated their effectiveness and success using observation and reflection, as well as student feedback, and modified the lessons as required

Activities and Resources

• Accessed many online training videos and learned how to use the PASCO pH, conductivity and motion sensors with their supporting software (mainly SPARKvue) for data collection on laptops and tablets
• Spent time experimenting (trial and error) with the hardware: tablets, AirLink (Bluetooth device), sensors
• Attended professional development workshop on use of of PASCO sensors for SCH 4U

Unexpected Challenges

Technical difficulties encountered:

• Downloading and updating the supporting software (SPARKvue) on our tablets
• Connecting the sensors to the tablets via AirLink (Bluetooth)
• Specific functions within the software

Enhancing Student Learning and Development

• Having hands-on technology experiences and using tools similar to those used by scientists and engineers, students develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, scientific literacy, and familiarity with the practices of science. They are also more interested, motivated and engaged overall.
• Using technology tools for data collection, analysis and visualization helps deepen students’ understanding of scientific concepts and increases retention of core concepts
• Mastery of probeware and hands-on technology helps prepare students for 21st-century STEM careers

Sharing

We have already shared and demonstrated some of what we have learned with colleagues in our department during course meetings – activities are being tested and adapted on an ongoing process.

We will host a professional development session in the fall to share what we have learned with other teachers in the board, and give participants the opportunity to experiment with the sensors and software themselves.

Project Evaluation

The team was successful in achieving the goals of implementing the use of probeware in the classroom and increasing student engagement.

Team members became proficient in setting up the probeware for classroom use and developed a set of step-by-step instructions to guide other teachers in the department who also wanted to try the probeware in their classes.

The learning for this project is ongoing and requires a longer timeline than initially proposed since the activities/lessons that need to be implemented can only take place during specific points in the course.