Method
2.1. Research Design
A qualitative approach was used in this study since it reflects 7th grade students’ views on combining the use
of computer simulations and laboratory activities in a Science and Technology course.
2.2. Participants
A total of 27 (13 male and 14 female) 7th grade students from a state school in the central Anatolia region of
Turkey participated in the study. The students were informed in advance about that the data gathered in this study
would be used only for research purposes and their names would not be mentioned in any part of the study.
2.3. Procedure
The study was conducted in the 2009-2010 school year after a three-week intervention involving four hours of
instruction each week over 12 hours in total. Thirteen computer simulations and eleven laboratory activities were
developed by the researchers for the "Electricity in Our Lives" unit in the Turkish Science and Technology
Curriculum (TSTC). The lessons were carried out in the computer laboratory where the necessary equipment for the
activities were made available. Working in groups, the students first studied the simulations on basic electrical
concepts, and then performed the activities using the laboratory equipment provided.
2.4. Data Collection Tool
A semi-structured written interview using a form containing four open-ended questions developed by the
researchers was used as the data collection tool. After the form was distributed to the students, they were given 25
minutes to respond to the questions. The questions were intended to reveal students’ views on combining the use of
computer simulations and laboratory activities. The questions in the written interview were as follows:
1. What do you think of conducting the activities using computer simulations along with experiments in the
science and technology course? How did it help you understand the subject?
2. Do you think computers should be used in science teaching and other courses?
3. What do you think of learning about electrical currents with combining computer simulations and laboratory
activities compared to your previous science classes?
4. What do you think of the "science laboratory" and "virtual laboratory"? Do you think the laboratories will be
virtual in the future?
5. Data Analysis
The data gathered through the interview form were analyzed using content analysis. The raw data is coded
categories are defined. Coding and categorization process was carried out repeatedly by the researchers.