Session T2E INTEGRATING VIRTUAL AND TRUE LABORATORY IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION

Consideroble pedagogical advantage may be gained by the integration of the different ICT tools commonly used in teaching science and technology, particularly by integrating 'true' and 'virtual' laboratory activities. In the context of this paper, 'true' laboratories involve benchtop experiments utilizing data acquisition systems while 'virtual' laboratories entail interactive simulations based on Java applets. Examples of two such integrated activities are described; namely, (i) the study of wave phenomena using sound and (ii) a study of biomass growth. Such integrated computerized teaching tools also provide on opportunity for o greater level ofintegration of dfferenr science and technology disciplines.