Melanie Peffer|Matthew Beckler|Christian D. Schunn|Maggie Renken|Amanda Revak
Science Classroom Inquiry (SCI) Simulations: A Novel Method to Scaffold Science Learning
Georgia State University|University of Pittsburgh|Georgia State University
science education progressively focused employing inquirybased learning methods classroom increasing scientific literacy among students however due time resource constraints many classroom science activities laboratory experiments focus simple inquiry stepbystep approach reach predetermined outcomes science classroom inquiry sci simulations designed give students real life authentic science experiences within confines typical classroom sci simulations allow students engage science problem meaningful inquirybased manner three discrete sci simulations created website applications use middle school high school students simulation students tasked solving scientific problem investigation hypothesis testing completion simulation 67 students reported change perceived authentic science practices specifically related complex dynamic nature scientific research scientists approach problems moreover 80 students report change viewed practice science indicated simulation confirmed strengthened prior understanding additionally found statistically significant positive correlation students selfreported changes understanding authentic science practices degree simulation benefitted learning since sci simulations effective promoting student learning student understanding authentic science practices middle high school students propose sci simulations valuable versatile technology used educate inspire wide range science students realworld complexities inherent scientific study