Anil Kaushik

Thesis Title
Computer-based Collaborative Concept Mapping: Motivating Indian Secondary Students to Learn Science

Read article at Massey Research Online:

Motivation is closely related with and plays an important role in learning. In the Indian education context, there is a strong emphasis on the enhancement of conceptual learning and motivation towards science learning, however the school system is facing an extensive learning crisis. Mr Kaushik designed an intervention named Computer-based Collaborative Concept Mapping (CCCM) by integrating the three teaching-learning strategies of computer-based learning, collaborative learning and concept mapping. Using design-based research methodology, he implemented and evaluated the CCCM intervention in four selected Indian secondary school classrooms. The effects of CCCM use were explored on students’ science achievement, conceptual learning and motivation towards science learning. Some enablers to, and barriers in, the use of the intervention were also identified and reported. While further research is needed, CCCM intervention use indicated an overall enhancement towards science learning of Indian secondary school students.

Supervisors
Professor Alison Kearney
Dr Lone Jorgensen

1. Kaushik, A. K. (2013, November). The impact of computer-based collaborative concept mapping on motivation towards science learning among secondary students: Experience from four Indian classrooms. Paper presented at the New Zealand Association for Research in Education (NZARE) conference & Annual Meeting 2013, the University of Otago, New Zealand.

2. Kaushik, A. K. (2013, June). Collaborative concept mapping as a tool for promoting collective thinking in secondary school science learning. Paper presented at the Redesigning Pedagogy- Thinking: Time for a Rethink? An international conference at the National Institute of Education, Singapore.