E-SCAPE Project
'E-scape': developing e-learning in GCSE science course work. In collaboration with Goldsmiths College London and Sheffield Hallam University, funded by a £45K grant from BECTA.
The E-scape project began in 2004 with a proposal to QCA/DfES for a digital approach to design and technology coursework portfolio assessment. It has recently (Dec 2008) completed phase 3 which has involved extending the concept to other subjects - science and geography. Three-hour science activities (focusing on 'road safety' and 'reaction time') have been developed and piloted with GCSE groups in three schools, with a view to assessing students' scientific capability using hand-held devices. The road safety activity underwent a full trial with other groups of Y10 students in June-July 2008 and the resulting 'e-portfolios' were assessed by a team of six judges in November 2008. Please see below link to the final report for the science element of phase 3 undertaken at Bath Spa University.
From September 2009 we will be undertaking a primary version of the e-scape project, funded by AstraZeneca Science Teaching Trust, with a view to developing an assessment of children's scientific and technological understanding in the new primary curriculum at the end of Key Stage 2.