New tools for scientific learning in the EduSeis project: the e-learning experiment

The Educational Seismological Project (EduSeis) is a scientific and educational project, the main aim of which
is the development and implementation of new teaching methodologies in Earth Sciences, using seismology as
a vehicle for scientific learning and awareness of earthquake risk. Within this framework, we have recently been
experimenting with new learning and information approaches that are mainly aimed at a high school audience.
In particular, we have designed, implemented and tested a model of an e-learning environment in a high school
located in the surroundings of the Mt. Vesuvius volcano. The proposed e-learning model is built on the EduSeis
concepts and educational materials (web-oriented), and is based on computer-supported collaborative learning.
Ten teachers from different disciplines and fifty students at the ITIS «Majorana» technical high school (Naples)
have been taking part in a cooperative e-learning experiment in which the students have been working in small
groups (communities). The learning process is assisted and supervised by the teachers. The evaluation of the results
from this cooperative e-learning experiment has provided useful insights into the content and didactic value
of the EduSeis modules and activities. The use of network utilities and the «Learning Community» approach
promoted the exchange of ideas and expertises between students and teachers and allowed a new approach to the
seismology teaching through a multidisciplinary study.

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