ERIC Number: EJ1448428
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Dec
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0266-4909
EISSN: EISSN-1365-2729
Digital Simulations as a Pedagogical Tool: How Ready are Fiji Year-11 Science Teachers?
Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, v40 n6 p3249-3263 2024
Background: Digital simulations are emerging technologies in science education that allow students to visualise abstract concepts and enable science teachers to conduct laboratory work/experiments online. Objective: To determine teacher readiness, the study focused on their cognitive skills and knowledge and perceptions of the use of digital simulations as a pedagogical tool incorporating an intervention in its research design. Methods: The theoretical framework of this study combines the modified Technology Acceptance Model with the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning. Snowball sampling was used to recruit 10 chemistry teachers from secondary schools and a mixed methods sequential explanatory research design was adopted. The data was collected through survey, interview, pre-test and post-test results before and after the intervention (training). Results: Science teachers perceive digital simulations as valuable and easy to use and are ready to use them in future lessons. An increase in cognitive knowledge and skills coupled with a positive mindset was noted after the training. The teachers indicated the need for training and support at all levels to successfully integrate digital simulations in their classrooms. Additionally, parents' engagement to enhance their awareness of such initiatives was deemed crucial for their support. Conclusions: The study calls for a rethinking and a revision of science curriculum, policies and enhancement of infrastructure/general resources to support technology-enabled learning, teaching and assessment practices in science classrooms; a continuous professional development program for teachers to keep up with the changing needs of 21st-century education is imperative.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Chemistry, Science Instruction, Computer Simulation, Professional Development, Computer Assisted Instruction, Parent Participation, Thinking Skills, Secondary School Science, Secondary School Students, Secondary School Teachers, Positive Attitudes, Teacher Attitudes, Grade 11, Science Teachers
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2191/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Secondary Education; Grade 11; High Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Fiji
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A