Examining Usage Trends of Computer Support of the Prospective Primary School Teachers in the Science Education based on the 5E Model

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine usage trends of computer support (CS) of Prospective Primary School Teachers (PPST) in science education based on the 5E instruction model. The research was designed according to the case study method. The sample of the study composed of 154 PPST. The PPTS were trained about the 5E model in the science teaching course. Data were collected through open ended questions which are prepared by researchers. These questions were about PPST used CS in their instructions in the 5E but ‘why? in which stage of model? and which websites they used?’Data were analyzed with content analysis and their frequencies were calculated. In data analyses, PPST’ statements related to their aims about usage of CS such as animations and videos etc. were coded. Results indicated that all of the PPST benefit from the national web sites and they prefer to use animation and videos in ‘engage’ and ‘explanation’ stage of the 5E model. Results also showed that PPST will use CS to attract students’ attention in the ‘engage’ stage and explain visually in the ‘explanation’ stage.