Technology and Motivation : Can the use of Technology Increase Student Motivation in the Science Classroom?

Abstract

This thesis project examines education and technology as they intersect in order to increase educators understanding of the use of technology as it bears on motivational factors present in today’s student population. The study explores current research regarding motivation, science education, and the use of technology in the classroom. The researcher taught students to use technology as a tool for their science learning and then used assessment measures to understand whether the use of technology in science education had any effect on their participation and motivation levels in the classroom. As part of the study, technology was utilized to present material in a science classroom to middle school students and they, in turn, used technology for research, investigations, and presentation. The study was conducted in a small urban charter school in Central New York in a seventh grade science class of 24 students. Data was gathered through student assessment using specific tech-based vs. non-tech based student work and teacher observation and journal notes through the course of the study. Study results also measured student participation in class during traditional lessons and during technology-based lessons. Conclusions support the use of technology to engage and motivate students in a science classroom. The study also suggests that general student behaviors were improved in the technology focused classroom space.