Technology Instead of a Textbook Alternatives for the Introductory Biology Classroom

Abstract

Technology is playing an increasingly important role as a teaching and learning supplement in modern classrooms. Potential benefits of the Internet, CDROMs, course web sites and other computer-based resources include increased communication among students and between instructor and students (Dowden & Humphries 1997; Hedges & Mania-Famell 1998-9), enhanced explanation of difficult concepts through multimedia (Fifield & Peifer 1994; Dori et. al. 1994-5), and exposure of students to the World Wide Web as a research tool (Baggott et. al. 1999). Biology in particular benefits from the application of technology in the classroom since rapid advancements in the field make it nearly impossible for textbooks to remain current. This is especially true when teaching introductory biology to nonsciencemajor students. Instructors can often engage this potentially hard-to-reach audience by discussing the most current events in biology-cloning, DNA fingerprinting, reproductive technologies, genetically modified foods, AIDS, etc.-subjects that are most relevant to students' lives and interests. Additionally, technology such as a content-heavy course web site offers the opportunity to focus the curriculum from the full range of possibilities to the specific subset appropriate to that introductory course. Many biology instructors are seeking to take advantage of these benefits by using technology as an increasingly integral part of the teaching experience (King & Hildreth 2001). This raises the question of how far this process can go. Can technology in fact replace more traditional modes? Or, on the other hand, can too much technology harm the learning experience? This paper describes a series of classes wherein technology usage was taken to its ultimate degree: as a replacement for, rather than a supplement to, a traditional textbook. First, the development and implementation of the technologies will be discussed. Data will be presented on student opinions of their effectiveness: what advantages and disadvantages the technology offered compared to more traditional media. The shortcomings of this technology will be addressed along with practical suggestions for reducing these obstacles.