EcoVentures: Focus on the Gulf

Kahveci M (2003)

This study evaluates the interactivity component of the EcoVentures program, finding positive teacher and student attitudes. Although the term “Interactivity” had been in use long before computer programs became a common feature of curriculum materials, little research has been done about the effectiveness of interactivity in education. It is believed that Interactivity increases learning in educational settings. In this study, I focused on the interactivity component of the EcoVentures program during instruction in middle and high school science classes. EcoVentures is a CD-I program targeting middle school students. For this study, on-line teacher and student surveys were conducted, interviews with teachers and students, and classroom observations were done. Teacher and student attitudes about the program are described. Forms of interactivity and effects on attitudes were investigated. The attitudes of the teachers and students revealed that both groups were positive towards the Interactivity component of the program. However, tenth grade students were prone to be less interested in the use of the program than eighth graders.

Source: Master’s thesis, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.

Kahveci M (2000)

An online system for evaluating and improving the effectiveness of curriculum materials. This paper presents the design and conceptualization of a new online evaluation system for the development of curriculum materials. With the increasing use of technology in education, a need has emerged for effective, scalable methods to evaluate the quality and instructional impact of digital and technology-enhanced learning materials. This system is designed to provide real-time, formative feedback to curriculum developers, allowing for continuous improvement of educational content. The proposed framework automates key data collection and analysis processes, reducing the burden on evaluators and providing a systematic approach to assessing a curriculum's effectiveness. It aims to address critical questions regarding student achievement, instructional quality, and overall program efficiency by using an online platform to streamline the evaluation process from initial design to final implementation.

Source: In: International Conference on College Teaching & Learning, Jacksonville, Florida, USA. April 12 - 15, 2000.