Integrating computer technology in the teaching of Biology

Abstract

Over the past decade, the number of students who gained satisfactory passes at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) in Biology in Guyana has been few. This poor performance may be attributed to the traditional method of teaching that was used to teach Biology. This study therefore ascertained if the integration of computer technology into the teaching of Biology would enhance students' academic performance. The study was guided by a null research hypothesis. Hence, the related literature reviewed for this study showed that integrating computer technology into the teaching of Biology can enhance students' academic performance in the subject. A quasi-experimental, pre-test, post-test, nonequivalent control group research design was used for the study. The study used two intact grade 10 classes. One class was assigned the experimental group and the other class was assigned the control group through a simple coin toss. The experimental group was taught Biology using computer technology, while the control group was taught the same topic using the traditional method of teaching. A 20-item multiple-choice Biology achievement test was prepared by the researcher and was used for both the pre-test and post-test. Face and content validation of the instrument was achieved through the contributions from two grade 11 Biology teachers and a measurement and evaluation specialist from the University of Guyana. A reliability coefficient of 0.75 was obtained using Pearson product moment coefficient after a pilot test of the instrument. Data collected were analysed using mean, standard deviation, and t-test. The results of the study showed that there was a significant difference between the academic performance of students in Biology who were exposed to computer technology and those exposed to the traditional method of teaching. It was therefore recommended that computer technology be integrated into the teaching of Biology to enhance students' academic performance.

Statistics Mastering Profile of Students in Biology Education Study Program

“…Besides that, integrating online sources is required in nowadays learning statistics (Tishkovskaya & Lancaster, 2010) as it is known that computer-based activities and web technology utilization are integrated-parts of present statistics (Tishkovskaya & Lancaster, 2012). The implementation of technology-based learning will be in line with the 21 st -century learning wich demanding educators to be used to with their digital-native-generation students (Chalkiadaki, 2018;Garraway-Lashley, 2014).…”

The Role of Technology in Biology Teaching During and Post Pandemic Era

“…Using technology-based media in biology classroom influence students' motivation in learning. There was a difference of students' achievement between the academic performance of students in Biology who were exposed to computer technology and those exposed to the traditional method of teaching [6]. The use of multimedia to enhance understanding of abstract concepts can be supported with the use of both formal science language and informal talk by teachers and students [7].…”

“…Unlike teacher P, teacher R prefer to use breakout room in Zoom because of its practicality. Thus, using computer technology into the biology learning motivate students to be active participants during learning process [6].…”

“…When computer technology used with the appropriate pedagogical strategies can be used to assist learners in understanding biological concepts and processes [5]. Using computer in teaching also gives greater access to information [6]. It also promotes students critical thinking and problems solving.…”