Differences between the use of mathematical entities in mathematics and physics and the consequences for an integrated learning environment

Abstract

In The Netherlands, like in a few other countries, two fields of application of computers in science education have been dominant: for data-acquisition and data processing, and for modelling. Experience with data-acquisition started around 1980, as well by enthus iastic teachers, as well by the Physics Education group of the University of Amsterdam (now part of AMSTEL Institute). The interest in modelling has been triggered by the work of Jon Ogborn (DMS). Soon the demand for an integration of these tools arose. Even in 1985 at an initiative of the University of Amsterdam group, a small group with Philip Harris, London University, and Dutch Telecom defined a concept for an integrated tool for Science and Technology education (Ellermeijer et. al, 1988). Unfortunately this initiative was not granted by EC, but it did have a major influence on further developments in The Netherlands. Due to the fact for the Dutch school system IBM-PC’s (or compatibles) became standard, we could start to develop for more powerful computers. In 1988 the first integrated software with support for an interface for data logging and powerful analysis tools including modelling was realized (IP-Coach 2). Over the years other valuable tools have been added to the environment, like for Control activities and for analysing digital video. The Coach 4 environment, still a DOS-software package, became de-facto standard in Dutch schools, together with the hardware for data logging. Because of these situation publishers, curriculum committees, teacher-training institutes could focus on this environment, and schools and teachers received a consistent and strong support. Because of its versatile character it is applied not only in Physics, but also in Chemistry, Biology and Technology. The present environment, Coach 5, internationally achieved a breakthrough. This environment is based on a new concept, made possible by the Windows environment. In addition to all the tools for Science and Technology education teachers/developers have powerful authoring tools to prepare activities for their students. They can select and prepare texts, graphs, videos and measurement settings and choose the right level according to age and skills of their students. In this way, Coach 5 can be adapted for pupils/students ranging from age 10 up to undergraduate students. Up to date information on the Coach environment can be obtained on the website: http://www.cma.science.uva.nl/english. A demonstration version can be downloaded from this site. A more detailed description of Coach 5 can be found in (Mioduszewska & Ellermeijer, 2001).