Developing interactive "Guidance Practice" software for DNA replication : a dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Applied Computing with Honours in Advanced Graphics at Lincoln University

Abstract

Guided Practice software is defined as combining Drill and Practice with Tutorials to: "offer learners hints, assistance, and even reteaching, as they practice a concept". A Guided Practice application was developed using Macromedia Flash to instruct Year 13 biology students in the processes of DNA replication. Technical objectives were created by review of the relevant pedagogy and by analysis of existing educational applications. Educational objectives were created by review and analysis of the available New Zealand educational curricula that cover genetics. The resultant application used a high degree of interaction to engage the learner in a guided exploration and problem solving exercise. Evaluation was conducted with high school students using both qualitative and quantitative techniques to assess clarity, user acceptance and educational effectiveness. This revealed that the application elicited considerable enthusiasm and substantial educational benefit.