The Technology Fair: a project-based learning approach for enhancing problem solving skills and interest in design and technology education |
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Authors: | Alexandros C Mettas Constantinos C Constantinou |
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Institution: | (1) Learning in Science Group, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, Nicosia, 1678, Cyprus |
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Abstract: | This paper presents an innovative way in which university education can help pre-service teachers become better problem-solvers.
The central idea is to use the “Technology Fair” as a means for promoting pre-service teachers pedagogical content knowledge
about technological problem solving skills. This innovation is supported with results from a study carried out in autumn 2004.
The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of a procedure of working with primary school children to complete
and present a technology fair project, on the educational value and meanings attached to problem solving skills by pre-service
teachers. Pre-tests, mid-test and post-tests were administered to the pre-service teachers before, during, and after the preparation
of the technology fair, respectively. A number of pre-service teachers were selected and interviewed after the completion
of the technology fair. Data were also collected from reflective diaries kept by the pre-service teachers during the preparation
phase of the technology fair. Analysis of the results indicates that the technology fair contributes to the development of
positive values and attitudes in technology education and has a significant influence on improving pre-service teachers understanding
and application of problem solving strategies within the domain of technology. |
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Keywords: | Decision-making Hands-on activities Problem-solving Science fair Technology fair University– school partnership |
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