Introduction:
Modelling Relationships and Controlling Events

During this case study, you will discuss and develop your skills in using ICT in teaching and learning to do the following:

• Use ICT to undertake modelling and control activities - this is specific to this case study.

Plus you will develop your ability to:

• Plan for the effective use of ICT § Organise classroom use of ICT.
• Prepare and present materials for learners using ICT.
• Use the functions of ICT and understand its limitations.
• Review and evaluate courseware and software.
• Relate the use of ICT to learners needs.
• Develop your learners' subject based learning using ICT.
• Assess your learners' progress in Science as a result of using ICT.
• Help develop your learners' capability in the use of ICT.
• Help your learners develop within the Science curriculum.

The first of these objectives is specific to this case study, and represents the core of what the case study is about. The other objectives are common to all three of the case studies in Science, and represent the application of your understanding of ICT to teaching and learning.

Before we get in detail to the case study, we should look more closely at what is meant by modelling and control. Specifically, the case study will consider the importance of the following in the use of ICT in teaching and learning Science:

• The components of a data collection system and the setting up such a system.
• Practical lessons which use data logging effectively, particularly in modelling relations between variables in experiments.
• The characteristics of ICT, such as speed and automatic function, which add value to practical science
• The experimental limits of ICT in controlling events and predicting the behaviour of variables
• The use of a spreadsheet to model the behaviour of substances under different conditions.

Part 1: Preparing to Use ICT in Teaching