Science teachers’ knowledge and integration of ICT tools in teaching Integrated Science

Abstract

The study explored the barriers to ICT integration in the teaching of Integrated Science in the Wa Municipality. The study was conducted using the sequential explanatory mixed method design with a sample size of sixty-nine (69) JHS Integrated Science teachers. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interview guides. The instruments were first pilot tested in the Wa West District with twenty (20) teachers to ensure validity and reliability of the items. Tables, frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviations were used to analyzed the questionnaire data using Statistical Product for Service Solutions (SPSS) version 21. The interview data were transcribed and analyzed. The study found out that integrated science teachers have content knowledge in ICT. The study also found out that the teachers believe ICT integration can improve the quality of teaching and learning with students actively participating during lessons. Even though teachers have content knowledge in ICT, they scarcely use the computer and its accessories to prepare and present lessons in class. The study found out that teachers were faced with many challenges in their efforts to integrate ICT into their teaching such as: inadequacy of ICT tools (computers, projectors, printers) in schools, power fluctuations, inadequate of computer specialists to fix computer problems, inadequate workshops to up-date teachers, poor access to the internet. The study recommended that GES and for that matter Wa Municipal Education Directorate should regularly organize workshops, seminars and in-service trainings on ICT integration for teachers to up-date their knowledge and skills on new technologies. Also, the ministry of Education and donor partners in education in the Wa Municipal Education Directorate should not only assist schools by supplying them with the necessary ICT logistics such as computers, projectors, printers, scanners and others with appropriate software installed but also, provide generators, solar panels, internet connectivity and technical support.