Candidate: Melissa Howse

Degree of: Doctor of Education

Department: Science Studies

Title: Student Ecosystems Problem Solving with Computer Simulation

Committee:
Dr. Leonard Ginsberg, Chair
Dr. Aletta Zietsman
Dr. Marcia Fetters

Date: Friday, May 17, 2002 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
2734 Wood Hall

Abstract:
Computer simulations such as the BioQUEST Environmental Decision Making (EDM) program represent a viable supplement or alternative to traditional science teaching approaches. This study concentrates on the manner in which knowledge is acquired and then disseminated through the use of the simulations. In addition, the study will take into account the nature of science by revealing what notions of ecosystems and simulation are revealed when students encounter concepts imparted to them via this method. The following research questions guide this study: 1) What procedural and content knowledge can the Ecology student draw on to solve BioQUEST problems. 2) What does students' performance indicate about the Nature of Science? What notions of ecosystems and simulation are revealed?

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