INTRODUCTION
The understanding and use of computers and technology are critical for elementary school pupils.
With respect to science learning, the National Science Education Standards of the United States
emphasize that more efforts should be devoted to creating an environment that promotes understanding of
science concepts, problem-solving skills, and hands-on activities, and students should work individually
or in small groups to explore materials, make observations and discover answers to their questions about
the natural world (National Research Council, 1996).