HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE

There are two general ways in which pupils may enhance their learning in science using ICT. The first encourages creative ways of thinking by asking 'What if?' questions and predicting. Simulation software allows pupils to do open investigations, choosing various conditions, predicting outcomes and then running the program to check the results. The second benefit of using ICT in science improves pupils' presentation of information allowing them to demonstrate their understanding of science. This could take any of the following forms: writing an explanation of aspects of science; creating a science poster or display; giving a PowerPoint presentation to a group; or creating a mindmap with hyperlinks to websites, pages of information or other mindmaps.

Teachers may promote pupils' thinking and behaviour by making the outcome clear and asking challenging questions. Websites give starting points for research. Pupils must achieve a good understanding of the topic to produce something original when they give presentations which can be filmed for future reference.

Recommended hardware for key stage 1:

• elementary data-logging hardware with sensors to measure sound and light (a single set would suffice)

Recommended software and hardware for key stage 2:

• elementary data-logging hardware with sensors to measure temperature, sound and light levels (a single set would suffice)
• binary tree database software for classification

Recommended software and hardware for key stage 3:

• data-logging hardware with sensors to measure temperature, speed and other quantities as appropriate. (Consider whether to employ demonstrations or whole class activities to achieve learning goals)
• access to sufficient computers and data-logging hardware to equip a class
• online science encyclopaedia; software simulations and models; data projector; and possibly a video microscope

Recommended hardware for key stage 4:

• as for key stage 3, together with light sensor or colorimeter; a pH sensor and other sensors as appropriate

Science-specific examples of how software and hardware enhance learning in science:

• data logging, presenting the data in real time to provide a better understanding of what the graph of results means
• simulation software enables pupils to make predictions and test them more easily