Using technology, hands-on, and fieldwork activity for GLOBE learning in secondary school

Abstract

As technology plays a crucial role in daily life, The Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology (IPST) has designed “GLOBE Trees around Us” workshop based on GLOBE protocols (Green-Up, Green-Down, and tree height) using learning elements in order for students to measure tree height through mobile application together with Green-Up and Green-Down protocols through lecture and hands-on activities. According to the results from 150 student’s handbooks, more than 87% of students were able to understand Green-Up, Green-Down and tree height protocol by using video clips, paper leaf mock-up, mobile application and fieldwork activity. From the interview of nine teachers from four schools about the Green-Up activity, it shows that about 80% of students concentrated on the workshop better than they did in the classroom and felt enjoyable during the hands-on activity. In terms of the learning elements, it is found that almost 90% of teachers thought they were beneficial to apply in this workshop, especially the GLOBE Observer application. All the teachers agreed that the application is easy to use, and all related materials are easy to prepare. However, the limitation of activity is that the application is not compatible with some devices. Teachers also planned to use the learning elements in classroom or science camp to promote student interest and understanding. In addition, the students may gain problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and thinking skills from attending this workshop.