And, regardless of the degree of computer involvement, there must also be a substantial hands-on laboratory component integrated into each science course. MBLs would also play a major role in the labs of the future. The role of the teacher in a room of 24 such individual stations would be to discuss questions and concerns brought to them by the students, as well as coordinate and oversee laboratory activities. The role of the science teacher would be dramatically different, yet just as valuable and rewarding as it is now. Its overall effectiveness needs to be enhanced by better hardware and software as well as greatly increased availability of each.
More research is needed to discover the most effective strategies for their use.
The rate at which computers will be used to enhance education, in science and in other fields, depends mainly upon state and national monetary commitment, followed by the willingness of individual schools to provide good inservice programs. A survey of secondary science teachers' needs. A case study of a microcomputer-based curriculum. The microcomputer and achievement and attitudes in high school biology. Learner control and achievement in science computer-assisted instruction.