Computers and the primary curriculum: an action research case study

This paper reports on an action research case study. The project involved nine classroom teachers using the action research process to develop an integrated curriculum algorithm and software classification system. The project also aimed to empower individual teachers with the knowledge, skill and confidence to understand, improve and transform their teaching procedures and practices with respect to the use of computers in primary classrooms. The discussion focuses on the development of the algorithm and the selection of a suite of software for the investigation of integrated curriculum topics. Also discussed is the impact of this type of instructional strategy on student and teacher motivation and performance. Also the lessons learnt in regard to software development, professional development, and the effectiveness of action research as a change agent.