EXPLORING LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES IN COORDINATED NETWORK-ENHANCED CLASSROOMS - A CASE OF KIDS AS GLOBAL SCIENTISTS

With the careful examination of one Internet-infused learning environm ent, this article begins a dialogue on the new potentials for learning that exist when students use the best features of the Internet teleco mmunications network to conduct genuine questioning and investigation in middle school science classrooms. Learning features explored includ e communication and the value of quick access to a wide range of infor mation and resources. To best utilize these features, new instructiona l models are developed including the design of a coordinated, distribu ted-learning approach to guide the development of cohesive and relevan t understandings. Learning potentials are explored and continued chall enges, primarily in facilitating the learning, are discussed. Potentia l changes discussed include role changes for project participants, inc luding the addition of new participants and the shift in roles for con tinued participants; the potential for more personal, intermediate-lev el explanations of science phenomena; and new opportunities for increa sed motivation to learn.