Experimental Research:
In an experimental study, the researcher manipulates at least one independent variable, controls other relevant variables, and observes the effect on one or more dependent variables. Experimental studies produce the sound evidence concerning hypothesized cause-effect relationships. (Gay, Mills & Airasian, 2006)
The steps in an experimental study:
1. Select and define a problem.
2. Select participants and measure instruments.
3. Prepare a research plan.
4. Execute procedures.
5. Analyze the data.
6. Formulate conclusion.
The experimental study is guided by at least one hypothesis that states an expected causal relationship between two treatment variables. The experimental group receives a new treatment, but the control group either receives a different treatment or is treated as usual. After the treatment for some period, people will administer the dependent variable and then determines a difference exists between the groups.
1. Potential experimental research question
Topic: The effect of ICT practice on students' academic achievement in Hong Kong primary schools
Independent Variable: The use of ICT in primary school curriculum
Dependent Variable: Academic result of grade six students
The purpose of the study is to examine the effects of ICT practice on overall academic result of primary sixth students. Participants include 1000 students who are randomly assigned to one of two treatments: ICT Curriculum Project and normal classes. Instruction was subsequently given during study. This research is to study whether there is a significant increase in academic results after the ICT project treatments.
Hypotheses:There is a significant increase in academic results after the ICT Project treatments.
In the study, there are two groups of students who get different treatment. The students are randomly assigned to treatment groups.
Group A: ICT Project (ICT curriculum)
The goal of the Primary School ICT project is to improve the educational outcomes for primary students in Hong Kong. To accomplish this goal, we have developed a curriculum for primary school students. The curriculum is based on the most current research about children's learning and activities that promote their skills. With the appointment of the ICT co-ordinator, the school should see a rapid and impressive improvement in the use of ICT.
a) more open-ended ICT activities eg. webquests and thinkquests.
b) ICT activities which encourage collaboration and problem solving.
c) The use of ICT into everyday lessons where appropriate. (using the technology to enhance all curriculum areas.)
d) The ICT curriculum also provides subject-relevant software and exciting web resources to enhance their subjects.
Group B: Normal Class with traditional teaching methods. (Non ICT-curriculum).
The project is conducting an experimental study at five primary schools to evaluate the effects of ICT on student’s learning and the enduring effects in primary grade six students.
2. How could data for the related variables be collected:
To learn about the effects of the ICT, we collect information on student’s academic results and performance at the beginning and end of their term years. We are also collecting information about the quality of the classroom environment, the quality of teacher interactions with children, and the degree to which the teachers used the curriculum activities in their classroom. After the 8 months intervention, we will compare their academic results using data collection from interviews and questionnaires. Results of the interviews and questionnaires will be converted into scores by SPSS and statistical analysis.
3. Provide argument how answer to that question can contribute to improvements in some aspect of education/teaching and learning.
We are testing the efficiency of the ICT curriculum. That is, we are seeing if use of the ICT curriculum improves student's learning and promotes their success in school.
Positive indications of ICT curriculum effects:
The study shows that the use of the ICT curriculum results in improvements in the quality of classroom learning environment. Also, tentative findings indicate that the amount and quality of the teachers' use of the ICT is significantly and positively associated with children's academic performance.
Recommendation:
In order to achieve the widespread uses and integrations of ICT in education that can enhance sustainable innovations, we need adopt a systematic and holistic strategy that addresses not only technological and pedagogical issues, but also the transformations of the holistic school cultures including their curricula, evaluation standards, rules, division of labors, and beliefs.
It is worthwhile to note the following issues that need to be addressed in future development:
1) Promote the development of technology in underdeveloped schools;
2) Systematic planning and continuous investment;
3) Appropriate budgets: investment of the ICT hardware, equipment, software, installation, cabling, Internet access and technical support.
4) Distributing facilities properly: Allocate computers in special computer labs. More computers should be scattered into classrooms, learning centers, and offices to facilitate the wide and frequent uses by teachers and students.
Reference:
Gay, L. R., Mills, G. E., & Airasian, P. (2006). Educational Research: Competencies for Analysis and Applications. Upper Saddle River, N.J. : Pearson/Merrill Prentice Hall.
Posted by Ronda
