The Use of Computer Tools in Implementation Projects in Schools

Abstract

In recent years, some endeavours have been made to overcome the gap between theoretical and practical knowledge. In many countries projects have been conducted that aim to disseminate research-based knowledge in the practical field of education. This article presents an approach to the implementation of research results. This approach is referred to as ‘symbiotic implementation’, because teachers and researchers are seen as partners and aim to jointly advance teaching and learning in classrooms. Teachers and researchers form a community of learners with the goal of enhancing the quality of teaching and learning in classrooms. In addition to face-to-face cooperation, the computer is used as a tool for communication and collaboration in teachers' communities of learners. The computer provides several tools which facilitate different functions for the communities: (a) mutual sharing of information among participants, (b) planning and documenting lessons, and (c) commenting upon and revising products. In two studies in Germany the process of teacher collaboration was investigated. As expected, face-to-face collaboration was pivotal for the success of the implementation. In contrast, teachers used the available computer tools only to inform themselves or to obtain material; the cooperation and collaboration tools were only used to a small extent.