Student Performance in a Technology-enhanced Aviation Meteorology Course

Abstract

In recent years, as the presence of technology in the classroom increased, methods for using technology also increased, but at a much slower pace. With this in mind, this study looked to current educational theory for an effective way of employing computer technology in the aviation meteorology classroom. One method that showed promise consisted of coupling technology with advance organizers. Advance organizers are pertinent introductory materials presented to students prior to formal instruction. Their purpose is to provide cognitive anchorage for the ideas that follow in subsequent instruction. In the past, advance organizers have met with mixed success, however, recent research shows that when properly constructed, they can be very effective in increasing students' academic performance. In this study, the effectiveness of computer technology as a means to present advance organizers was studies. The sample consisted of 67 students who received the advance organizers either by technology via computer monitors or by paper hard copy. Students were statistically matched and data were analyzed using multiple analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) and follow-on univariate analyses of covariance (ANCOVA). In this study, statistically significant results showed computer technology to be effective in increasing performance among aviation meteorology students.