A Comparison of Science Vocabulary Acquisition Using Keyword Mnemonics via Technology and Flash Cards

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Bibliographic Details
Title: A Comparison of Science Vocabulary Acquisition Using Keyword Mnemonics via Technology and Flash Cards
Language: English
Authors: Slemrod, Tal (ORCID 0000-0002-6122-0264), Howorth, Sarah, Wood, Leah, Lemmi, Catherine, Hart, Shelley, Cheney, Douglas, West, Elizabeth
Source: Journal of Special Education Technology. Sep 2023 38(3):301-313.
Availability: SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 13
Publication Date: 2023
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Secondary Education
Descriptors: STEM Education, Science Education, Vocabulary Development, Students with Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, Adolescents, Secondary School Students, Biology, Secondary School Science, Intervention, Science Teachers, Secondary School Teachers, Mnemonics, Instructional Materials, Visual Aids, Educational Technology, Program Effectiveness, Teacher Competencies, Conventional Instruction, Handheld Devices
DOI: 10.1177/01626434221100729
ISSN: 0162-6434
2381-3121
Abstract: There is a growing recognition of the importance of effective instruction in the STEM subjects, including science. The movement towards increased requirements and expectations in science presents a challenge to both students and teachers as many students with Learning Disabilities (LD) often struggle, particularly in their science classes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of a technology intervention targeting the acquisition of science vocabulary for adolescents with LD in a general education secondary biology classroom. Additionally, a purpose was to examine the usability and feasibility of a tech-based science vocabulary intervention for secondary science teachers. Participants for this study included three secondary students with LD who were enrolled in a biology class. A multiple treatment reversal design was used to compare the effects of a keyword mnemonic vocabulary intervention via index cards or iPod touch on student vocabulary acquisition. All students acquired the content vocabulary equally well during both conditions. It was clear that the students had a strong interest in using technology to increase their grades and engagement; however, the teachers had little access and training on using technology to support their students with disabilities.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2023
Accession Number: EJ1386636
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:There is a growing recognition of the importance of effective instruction in the STEM subjects, including science. The movement towards increased requirements and expectations in science presents a challenge to both students and teachers as many students with Learning Disabilities (LD) often struggle, particularly in their science classes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of a technology intervention targeting the acquisition of science vocabulary for adolescents with LD in a general education secondary biology classroom. Additionally, a purpose was to examine the usability and feasibility of a tech-based science vocabulary intervention for secondary science teachers. Participants for this study included three secondary students with LD who were enrolled in a biology class. A multiple treatment reversal design was used to compare the effects of a keyword mnemonic vocabulary intervention via index cards or iPod touch on student vocabulary acquisition. All students acquired the content vocabulary equally well during both conditions. It was clear that the students had a strong interest in using technology to increase their grades and engagement; however, the teachers had little access and training on using technology to support their students with disabilities.
ISSN:0162-6434
2381-3121
DOI:10.1177/01626434221100729