NotesFAQContact Us
Collection
Advanced
Search Tips
Back to results
ERIC Number: ED401066
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1994-Sep
Pages: 47
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Evaluation of the Nature-Computer Camp: Summer 1993.
Negero, Arega
The purpose of the Nature Computer Camp (NCC) is to provide sixth-graders in District of Columbia Public Schools an opportunity to explore and appreciate nature in its natural setting. The program also aspires to develop computer proficiency, enhance students' social and interpersonal skills, stimulate group interaction, and strengthen students' self-esteem and group dynamics. Analyses of pre- and posttests on various educational and social factors indicate that students succeeded in strengthening their environmental knowledge and social skills during the 5 days of intensive activities at the camp. The gain in students' technology skills was marginal. In fact, only two of the four performance subgroups (stream ecology and geology) were found to improve significantly, indicating that different strategies are needed to improve other areas. The educational and environmental science explorations were beneficial to urban youth who rarely get a chance to appreciate the outdoors in natural settings. It is recommended that the program be continued on a year-round basis, as it was until it was discontinued due to fiscal constraints, and incorporated into the regular school curriculum. Efforts should also be made to increase the number of student participants. A future study should focus on the impact of NCC on the subsequent school performance of students to determine the long-term benefits of the program. (TD)
Publication Type: Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: District of Columbia Public Schools, Washington, DC. Office for Educational Accountability, Information and Assessment.
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A