Computer-Aided Learning Modules for General-Education Geology Courses

本项目利用多媒体计算机技术的最新发展，创建了一套集成的计算机辅助学习（CAL）模块，用于在普通教育课程中教授地质学的基本概念。该软件由图形密集的交互式多媒体模块组成，这些模块将包括跨主题的动画、视频、声音和超文本链接。模块主题包括全球地质、板块构造、地质时间、地球内部、地球材料、全球周期、人类影响和地球演化。材料中的问题为学生提供即时反馈，并指导他们的进步。每个部分后的小测验评估概念的实现，并提供自动评分，以评估学生的进步和教学媒体的有效性。新模块建立在PI开发的屡获殊荣的试点模块的成功基础上，并以整个开发和评估阶段收集的学生评价为指导。最初的目标受众将是由PI（生命史）和Co-PI（行星地球）教授的两门大型通识教育课程的非科学专业学生（60%的大一至大二学生，约10%的教育专业学生）。这些模块广泛适用于任何入门地质学通识教育课程，并将出版，广泛宣传，并传播到全国的大学，学院，大专院校和高中。计划在中小学教师的培训中广泛使用这些模块。

This project takes advantage of recent developments in multimedia computer technology to create an integrated set of computer-aided learning (CAL) modules to teach fundamental concepts of geology in general education courses. The software consists of graphics-intensive, interactive multimedia modules that will include animation, video, sound, and hypertext linking across topics. Module topics include global geology, plate tectonics, geologic time, Earth interior, Earth materials, global cycles, human influences, and evolution of the Earth. Questions throughout the material provide immediate feedback to the students and guide their progress. Quizzes after each section assess concept attainment and provide automated scoring for assessment of student progress and effectiveness of the instructional media. The new modules build on the success of an award-winning pilot module developed by the PI, and are guided by student evaluations collected throughout the development and assessment phases. The initial target audience will be students in two large general education courses for non-science majors (60% freshmen-sophomores, ~10% education majors) taught by the PI (History of Life) and the Co-PI (Planet Earth). The modules have broad applicability to any introductory geology general education course, and will be published, widely advertised, and disseminated nationally to universities, colleges, junior colleges, and high schools. Extensive use of the modules in the preparation of elementary and secondary teachers is planned.