Enhancing Learning for 5th Graders by Way of Website Delivery for the Content Area of Social Studies

Abstract

Today’s 21st century learners conduct most of their lives through assisted technology outside of school. The fast paced world of technology is changing by the minute yet; students are being left behind in educational settings because of outdated methods through which they are still being taught. Schools are struggling to keep up with today’s trends and improvements to meet students’ needs. This action research project attempted to determine if a web-based delivery approach could enhance learning by improving technical skills, participation, and motivation in 5th grade students in the content area of social studies. Pre and Post unit learning reflection results indicated positive reactions from participants. Teacher observations and student growth in the subject matter covered, suggested that web-based delivery in the form of a website may be effective as a tool for delivering content. Exposing students to web-based delivery also changed their individual preferences of how they like to learn.