| The objective of this study is to identify how technology, with a focus on the website, can enhance the delivery of science content, bridging the distance now existent between research scientists and the secondary classroom teacher. Through action research, the effectiveness of the model being developed by the Earth 2 Class program was studied in order for a pedagogically sound distance learning curriculum and delivery model to be designed. The efficacy of this model was looked at both from the participating teachers' point of view, as well as the contributing scientists' perspective, as technology provided a communication channel that allowed them to approach each other in ways that would not have been possible otherwise. Consequently, this study provided a framework for developing efficient distance-learning modules based upon: (a) themes echoed through research using the Earth 2 Class model; and (b) principles of postmodern learning theories, curriculum development, educational outreach models, and instructional design theories. |
