Student perceptions of chemistry experiments with different technological interfaces: a comparative study

Abstract

Microcomputer based laboratory activities have been suggested to have a number of benefits in science education. However, their implementation produces mixed results, and student perception data have in the past yielded responses that are negative regarding the technology. This work presents a case study of three first year undergraduate chemistry experiments in which negative views of hand-held graphic data logger devices were significantly alleviated by replacing them with notebook computers equipped with equivalent software. Widespread improvements in student perceptions of their laboratory experience were observed, prominently including reduced negativity concerning the equipment, an increased perception of understanding, an increased perception of simplicity, and more positive perceptions of overall laboratory experience. These improvements, which were not limited to perceptions directly concerning the technology specifically, suggest a broad range of substantial advantages is present in providing a suitable user interface.