Research in Social Sciences and Technology

Profiling Accounting Teachers’ Readiness for Online Learning During the Covid-19 Pandemic in the Eastern Cape in South Africa: Who Was Ready?

Melikhaya Skhepehe — 2024-09-30

Regardless of the preparation of teachers, the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing social distancing measures forced educational institutions worldwide to convert quickly to online teaching and learning. COVID-19 has disrupted educational processes globally. The relevance of researching COVID-19's effects on the educational system has increased to discover a logical solution to this problem. This study assumes that a unit-level analysis can provide some insight, despite the pandemic's extensive consequences. Thus, during the Covid-19 outbreak in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, this study examined the preparation of accounting teachers for online learning. In a case study research design, a qualitative approach, a ten accounting teachers’ sample that was appropriate and intentional, was used. According to the survey, accounting learners are not aware of the potential applications of online learning in the classroom. The fact that schools do not promote online learning was another conclusion. The experts advise school administrators to schedule regular lectures online so that learners can learn. Redesigning classrooms is necessary to facilitate online learning.

Teachers’ Capabilities in Implementing Inclusive Education: A South African Perspective

Matsolo Mokhampanyane — 2024-09-30

In this empirical paper, we discuss teachers’ capabilities in implementing inclusive education. The background to this paper is that teachers have challenges in implementing inclusive education in South African primary schools. The study is underpinned by critical emancipatory research (CER), which advocates for peace, hope, equality, freedom, and social justice. A transformative paradigm under a qualitative approach and participatory action research design was adopted to analyze the experiences of the stakeholders of the research school. This is a qualitative paper where interviews were used to collect data from 7 participants. The study found that teachers in primary schools are not well prepared to implement inclusive education. Considering the findings, the study argues that there is a need to ensure that teachers are well-prepared and supported for inclusive education through in-service training.

Understanding Barriers to STEM: Teachers' Insights on African American Underrepresentation

Peter Ndiangui — 2024-09-30

This study focuses on the development of a measurement instrument to identify Middle and High School mathematics and science teachers’ beliefs about the main factors of underrepresentation of African American students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. The research method using the stages of instrument development were (1) test design which involved construction of initial item pool by conducting extensive review of literature and coding of participating teachers personal statements (2) determination of validity which involved expert review process to confirm construct and face validity of items, (3) pilot testing which involved collecting data from a second set of participants, (4) determination of reliability which involves conducting a reliability analysis based on data collected from pilot testing and (5) determination of factorial structure which involved Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to identify underlying factors in participating teachers’ belief structures. First, to obtain trustworthy information, voluntary middle and high school mathematics and science teachers were asked to write personal statements where they explain their main reasons for choosing teaching as a career. Secondly, qualitative data obtained from participating teachers’ personal statements were coded. Coding was applied to identify and to group the phrases or sentences that convey the same or similar reasons. Then results from an extensive literature review on this topic were blended in teachers’ common expressions which were determined because of coding procedure. Then 8 content experts assessed content validity and face validity. Finally, the survey was piloted to African American middle and high school mathematics and science teachers. Fifty-three (53) surveys were completed and received back from teachers. Then, exploratory factor analysis was conducted to identify any underlying factors in the scale. Reliability analyses were also conducted for both the entire survey and for each of the factors. Results of the study suggested four underlying components: (1) Access and Resources, (2) Role Models and Representation, (3) Bias and Discrimination, (4) Curriculum and Pedagogy.

A Quest to Nurture Creativity in Technology Classrooms: Are Physical Factors a Spanner in the Works?

Maokanyane Patricia Magolego — 2024-09-30

Nurturing creativity in Technology classrooms will, potentially, prepare learners for adaptability to the sweeping transformations that the new industrial revolutions portend and equip them to maximise the opportunities inherent in these revolutions. This study examined the effects of physical factors on the development of creativity in Grade 9 Technology classrooms. A qualitative research design was employed to purposively sample three Grade 9 Technology teachers to participate in this study. Open-ended questionnaires and non-participant observations were used as the methods of data collection for the study and the data were analysed thematically. The research findings show that creative pedagogy and the resultant development of creativity in the classroom, to a significant extent, are influenced by physical factors – class size and availability of Technology equipment. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by outlining how unfavourable physical conditions hinder the development of creativity skills in Technology classrooms, which is a core objective of the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) guiding Technology education in South Africa. The study outlines the importance of a conducive learning environment to the quest to enhance learners’ creativity. Furthermore, the study recommends solutions to the paucity of resources for the enhancement of creativity in the Technology classrooms.

The Role of the Writing Centre in Enhancing Student Employability a Case Study of a University in South Africa

Yamkela Ntando — 2024-09-30

In the quest of bridging the high graduate unemployment gap of South African graduates, universities introduced initiatives which sought to assist graduates gain the necessary working experience. South African graduates struggle to find sufficient employment due to lack of work experience. The peer-to-peer coaching led by senior students, who are postgraduate students, leads to the enhancement of graduate employability. Therefore, this paper sought to investigate the contribution of the writing centre in increasing the chances of employment for its consultants. In light of this, literature was consulted to reveal the role of the writing centre in promoting student employment. Unstructured interviews were conducted on fifteen (15) participants, who were identified through convenient sampling technique. Thematic analysis was adopted to analyse the collected data. The paper found that the programme equips students to be familiar with the working environment. The study further revealed that the writing centre office is under-capacitated financially. The study thus proposed that the programme must be financially supported by the university, Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and other external stakeholders to continue capacitating the development of students. The study, therefore, concluded that the writing centre office effectively promotes student employability and increases the working experience of writing centre consultants.

Gender Stereotyping and Social Norms: Exploring Theoretical Perspectives and Educational Implications

Matthew Damilola Omojemite — 2024-10-03

This review is a theoretical paper which examined gender stereotyping and social norms. The review was supported by feminist theory, critical theory and social psychology theory. The review utilizes a comprehensive strategy to investigate the theoretical lenses and consequences of gender stereotyping and social norms. The approach comprised of a few key stages. A survey incorporating gender stereotyping, social norms, feminist theory, critical theory and social psychology to assemble an all encompassing comprehension of the review was done. The review of gender stereotyping and social norms through critical assessment of key idea and viewpoints from feminist theory, critical theory and social psychology. The structure for revealing perplexing social peculiarities is given by the integration of feminist theory, critical theory and social psychology theory. This enlightened the basic component of inequality and injustice by considering the joint impact of gender, power and social setting. The review revealed the pervasive nature of gender stereotyping and social norms, their effect on causing inequality and injustice and the significance of promoting gender equality and social equity. In this way, the significance of interdisciplinary collaborative effort and combined actions in addressing the issue of gender stereotyping and social norms within educational setting and more extensive cultural setting. It emphasized the need for holistic approaches that will consider the broad intersection of power, ideology, and social issue in order to create gender equality and social justice both in the social and educational domain.

Accessibility Challenges of Using Podcasts and Vodcasts in a South African Distance Learning University

Ntshimane Elphas Mohale — 2024-10-03

Academic writing presents a range of challenges for students, particularly those enrolled in distance university institutions. These challenges encompass various facets such as understanding citation and referencing, developing a distinctive writer’s voice, mastering academic discourse, paraphrasing, summarising, and adhering to academic conventions. Notably, deficiencies in academic writing skills often trace back to inadequate preparation during high school education, potentially leading to qualification deferment and high dropout rates. To tackle these challenges, podcasts and vodcasts emerged as essential tools to bridge academic gaps, catering to diverse learning styles and offering flexibility beyond traditional teaching methods. However, the efficacy of supplemental multimedia tools warrants exploration, considering uncertainties regarding student acceptance. Thus, this study aimed to identify accessibility challenges, to reduce existing barriers and enhance accessibility in open distant institutions. Utilising qualitative research methodologies, including focus group discussions and literature analysis, data collection was conducted. The study drew upon Moore’s theory of transactional distance and Garrison et al.’s community of inquiry framework to create collaborative online interactions and meaningful lecturer-student engagement, culminating in the construction of new knowledge. Findings revealed that students did not encounter accessibility challenges and expressed preference for shorter podcasts and vodcasts. These multimedia formats alleviated boredom, clarified complex concepts, prevented monotony, enhanced attention and comprehension, stimulated interest, facilitated active learning, and accommodated various learning styles. Podcasts and vodcasts reduced transactional distance and created a sense of community. Contrary to prevailing literature, students did not encounter accessibility challenges, shifting the focus towards shorter, high-quality multimedia content rather than accessibility concerns.

Conceptualization of student support by university support staff in an open distance e-learning environment

Enid Manyaku Pitsoane — 2024-10-03

Student support is seen as a necessity to better students’ progress. For students to succeed when studying at a distance, they need a great deal of support to adjust to the institution of higher learning. Independence theory was used as a lens to understand the role of student support staff in providing services to students. A qualitative case study was employed with a purposive sample of sixteen support staff to explore the role of regional academic coordinators, counsellors, centre managers and librarians, referred to as support staff, in supporting students in an open distance e-learning institution and also to determine their understanding of student support. The results reveal that most of the support staff members were aware of their role in contributing to student success in the institution. They indicated that there is a gap between academics and professional staff where a referral system is lacking to fully support and trace students needing support. Support staff seemed to lack marketing skills to inform and attract students to utilize the services. The results further reveal a lack of technological skills among some of the support staff to facilitate online services for students. The study recommends collaboration among all role players in the institution in order to give holistic support to students and to be trained in technological skills to assist students online.

The Dynamics of Slido to Promote Learning in Rural University Classrooms

Oyinlola Omolara Adebola — 2024-10-03

Slido is an interactive online platform facilitating active learning in rural university settings. Rural universities often need more resources, including access to technology and opportunities for diverse pedagogical approaches. Traditional lecture-based teaching predominates due to these constraints, which can hinder student engagement and learning outcomes. Slido offers a solution by leveraging technology to enhance interaction, collaboration, and participation within the classroom environment. This study, therefore, adopted the Slido application to promote active learning in one of the rural university classrooms within South African higher education. Active learning methodologies have gained widespread recognition for their effectiveness in engaging students, fostering more profound understanding, and promoting critical thinking skills. However, implementing such strategies, especially in rural university classrooms, can pose unique challenges. Through features such as live polls, quizzes, and audience Q&A sessions, Slido enables instructors to create dynamic learning experiences that encourage active participation from students. In rural contexts where class sizes may be smaller and student diversity limited, Slido provides an avenue for inclusive participation and allows even the most reserved students to contribute anonymously. Hence, the qualitative study adopted a transformative paradigm as a lens and approached it through active learning designed by Action Research. Furthermore, the study was a two-year project involving third-year business studies students and their transition to, and completion of, their fourth year of study. Seven students were selected as the participants, and data was generated through a Focus Group discussion and analyzed using Thematic Analysis. The study revealed that Slido promotes activeness among students in the module selected in the rural university. In conclusion, Slido offers a promising solution for promoting active learning in rural university classrooms. The study recommends that lecturers should be empowered in terms of resources and training to infuse technology into teaching.

Unlocking Potential: The Transformative Role of Gaming in Rural Higher Learning Institutions of South Africa - A Systematic Exploration

Ifeanyi Mbukanma — 2024-10-03

The aim of this study resonated with the pursuit of achieving enhanced engagement in teaching and learning that informs critical thinking, and knowledge retention among students. Despite the growing trend of technological integration in teaching and learning, however, there exists a lack of empirical evidence and comprehensive studies that investigate the effectiveness of gaming in promoting educational objectives within rural institution of higher learning in South Africa. To investigate this gap, a systematic review method was employed, which provides a comprehensive and logical analysis of existing literature on the significance of gaming in teaching and learning within rural institutions of higher education. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were used in the study to enhance the rigor and transparency of the research process, by providing a solid foundation for synthesizing and interpreting existing literature relevant to the study. The systematic review findings revealed that the significance of gamification in teaching and learning in rural higher education lies in its ability to overcome accessibility challenges, provide personalized learning experiences, address motivation and retention issues, and enhance digital literacy. It was recommended that by incorporating gamified approaches, rural higher educational institutions can create a more inclusive, engaging, and effective learning environment for students within the rural institutions of higher learning in South Africa.

A Review of Official Documents and Literature on the Forgotten Victims of Parental Incarceration in South Africa

Afika Fikiswa Magadla-Mateyise — 2024-10-03

This article is a literature synthesis of the living conditions of black children after their parent's imprisonment. In Africa, the prison population currently stands at 1,194,497, while in South Africa, 147,922 people were being held in correctional facilities as of January 2021. Parental incarceration has affected all children, regardless of race, age, or cultural background. An increasing amount of research indicates that children with incarcerated parents are prone to internalized behaviors such as depression, anxiety, and withdrawal, as well as externalized behaviors including criminality and substance use. They may also experience cognitive delays, academic struggles, and insecure attachments in their relationships with both their imprisoned parents and primary caregivers. The term "caregiver" denotes the individual who assumes the role of the child's main caregiver while the parents are incarcerated. It is important to note that the literature focusing on child-headed households in South African informal settlements and townships may be limited. This paper is a narrative synthesis of the literature review and uses secondary sources.

Prospects and Challenges to ICT Adoption in Teaching and Learning at Rural South African Universities: A Systematic Review

Vikela Liso Sithole — 2024-10-03

This study aimed to systematically review the prospects and challenges associated with adopting Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching and learning at rural universities in South Africa. To achieve this aim, a systematic review methodology was employed. The systematic review findings revealed a multifaceted landscape wherein opportunities for enhancing education through ICT exist alongside significant challenges. Prospects include the potential for technology to bridge educational gaps, increase accessibility, and provide innovative learning experiences. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited connectivity, and varying levels of digital literacy pose significant impediments. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address these challenges, including infrastructure development, capacity building, and localized content creation. Additionally, recommendations for flexible learning models and collaborative partnerships are outlined to facilitate effective ICT adoption in the unique context of rural South African universities. Continuous research and evaluation are advocated to inform future strategies and ensure sustainable improvements in rural education through ICT integration.

Is It Germane to Sustain Higher Education Research in The Post-Covid-19 Era?

Oluwayemi IbukunOluwa Odularu — 2024-10-03

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted developing countries, causing educational and economic crises globally. This study explores the necessity of maintaining research in Higher Education (HE) amidst the pandemic's disruptions. It questions whether Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can sustain research post-COVID-19 while balancing essential functions to avoid risks. Despite extensive studies on HEIs' research sustainability post-pandemic, there is a notable gap in understanding the precise strategies needed to balance essential functions, address risks, and foster resilience amid uncertainties. To bridge this gap, the study highlights the importance of reassessing research priorities and methods in the changing HE landscape. A systematic literature review was conducted, gathering relevant literature from various databases. The study employed an exclusion and inclusion design for research selection. It points out that maintaining HE research post-pandemic has not been sufficiently investigated, leaving a critical gap in understanding research practices. The conceptual model, serving as the study's theoretical foundation, offers an organized means of evaluating the need for HE research considering the pandemic's global economic impacts. This study underscores the importance of multi-stage educational research in the post-COVID-19 era, given the interconnectedness of HEIs. It advocates for a flexible and dynamic research environment and suggests comprehensive approaches to anticipate and meet emerging trends in higher education. The study emphasizes that future research should focus on mitigating post-pandemic challenges and preparing for shifts in HE, promoting resilience and creativity in the field.

Contextualizing Human Rights in Multicultural Environments

Patrick Agyare — 2024-10-08

This paper explores the intricate relationship between socio-cultural dynamics and human rights in multicultural societies. It examines how norms, belief systems, and power structures shape the perception and exercise of these universal principles. The study employs a qualitative research design, specifically using the Cultural Relativism Framework, to investigate how cultural norms and values influence the interpretation and application of human rights. Through the analysis of literature and case studies, the paper elucidates the interaction between cultural context and human rights interpretations. It acknowledges that human rights are not uniform but are influenced by diverse cultural contexts. Key findings underscore the significance of multiculturalism in human rights interpretation, the impact of social, cultural, and political contexts, the intersection of values, beliefs, and customs, and the roles of states, civil society, and international organizations in shaping human rights discourse. The paper advocates for educational initiatives, intercultural dialogue, inclusive policymaking, and legal reforms to promote and protect human rights in diverse societies. It recommends enhancing human rights education, facilitating intercultural exchange, empowering civil society, addressing discrimination and inequality, and integrating customary laws with formal legal systems. By fostering mutual respect and understanding, societies can uphold human rights and cultural diversity, enabling peaceful, equitable coexistence. This assertion is based on empirical observations and scientific principles that highlight the importance of mutual understanding in preserving human rights and promoting cultural diversity. This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of human rights, advocating for a balance between universal principles and cultural specificities.

Reimagining Learner Engagement Through Flipped Classrooms in the Post COVID-19 Era

Nomasomi Hilda Matiso — 2024-10-08

The post-COVID-19 era gave rise to the emergence of innovative teaching and learning strategies, which, among others, included flipped classrooms. This article sought to determine whether flipped classrooms are beneficial when online learning material is distributed prior the commencement of the class. Piaget’s (1986) Constructivist Learning Theory underpinned this inquiry. Constructivism is an approach to education that holds that people actively generate their own knowledge and that reality is shaped by the learner's experiences. The interpretive paradigm and a qualitative approach were utilized to collect information through semi-structured interviews with twelve conveniently selected grade 10 teachers. Using a case study design, the researcher could investigate the phenomenon in detail. Findings, which ensued from thematically analysed data, indicated that learners benefit most from pre-class activities as they offer increased participation opportunities as learners engage in discussions in their native languages. Thus, discussions and modelling tasks during in-class activities are learner-centred, with the development of paraphrasing skills, which promote good essay writing skills with minimum plagiarism effects. The author, therefore, recommends that Teachers require ongoing professional development in applying flipped classrooms using advanced learner-centred technological pedagogies, which promote maximum participation in the learning environment.

Determinants of Quality Jobs Among Youth: An Empirical Investigation Across Occupations in Lagos, Nigeria

Oluyemi Theophilus Adeosun — 2024-10-08

Quality jobs, a multidimensional construct, have been perceived differently in labour management literature. The view that the quality of earnings is the primary determinant of job quality has been criticized. This study, therefore, investigates the characteristics and major factors determining quality jobs among the youths in Lagos, Nigeria. Leveraging on the rational actor theory, Maslow's theory of needs, and Amartya Sen’s capability approach, four hundred (400) employees, mainly youths, across occupational sectors within Lagos, Nigeria, were sampled. Using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis, the study revealed that though wage (quality of earning) is an essential factor determining youths’ perception of a job, findings revealed other vital factors that youths consider in determining quality jobs. The work environment, dignity, and workers’ protection, among others, are identified in this study as determinants of quality jobs. Far-reaching implications, both practical and policy-oriented, emerged for all stakeholders.

Elevating STEM Learning: Unleashing the Power of AI in Open Distance eLearning

Nonkanyiso Pamella Shabalala — 2024-10-08

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Open Distance eLearning (ODeL) represents a significant evolution in STEM education, offering transformative benefits in teaching, learning and administrative processes. This conceptual paper explores how AI-driven platforms are revolutionising ODeL by providing personalised learning experiences, real-time feedback, adaptive assessments and immersive simulations through technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). These advancements not only enhance student engagement and understanding but also support the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The paper highlights successful case studies from institutions like Carnegie Mellon University and Stanford Online High School, showcasing practical implementations of AI in STEM education. However, the integration of AI also brings forth challenges, particularly concerning data privacy, security and the need for equitable access to technology. As AI continues to advance, it promises to play an important role in lifelong learning, offering modular and just-in-time educational opportunities. The paper concludes with a call for robust ethical frameworks to guide the responsible use of AI in education, ensuring that the benefits are maximized while potential risks are mitigated.

Adapting to Remote Teaching: Experiences and Technological Adjustments of Rural Physical Science Teachers During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Patricia Photo — 2024-10-08

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated an abrupt shift to remote teaching, presenting unique challenges for rural Physical Science teachers due to their limited access to technological resources. This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of six Physical Science teachers from rural South Africa during this transition. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. The findings reveal significant disruptions in teaching and learning processes, with a pronounced negative impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. The study highlights teachers’ adaptative measures, including using WhatsApp and other digital platforms to mitigate educational interruptions. Despite their efforts, the lack of infrastructure and digital tools severely restricted effective teaching. This research highlights the necessity of enhanced technological support and resources for rural educators to ensure resilient and adaptable educational practices in the face of future disruptions. The experiences detailed herein reflect broader implications for policy and practice, advocating for a strategic focus on closing the digital divide and supporting rural educators comprehensively.

Transforming Foundation Phase Life Skills Teachers’ Use of Learning and Teaching Support Materials Towards Sustainable Development of Teaching

Pelokazi Nqabeni — 2024-10-21

This paper reports on transforming Foundation Phase teachers’ use of learning and teaching support materials (LTSMs) to sustain teaching and learning in Life Skills classrooms. This paper aimed to comprehend teachers’ perspectives on how they could transform their practices using LTSMs to improve their teaching and learner performance to contribute towards the sustainable development of teaching. The National Policy and Guidelines for LTSM stipulate that teachers must be teaching mediators. The study was informed by an analytical framework for studying classroom practices along the Activity Theory (AT) dimensions through teachers’ and learners’ interactions. The case study design was qualitative with an interpretive paradigm. Purposive sampling gathered information from three Grade 3 Life Skills teachers through semi-structured interviews, structured observations, and document analysis. Data were analysed, and themes emerged from the questions. Findings revealed that LTSMs are ineffective in improving teaching and learner performance due to shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and lack of professional development. We recommend that the Department of Education should provide more classrooms to assist teachers in their practices. Also, there should be more professional development activities for teachers to transform their practices for sustainable development.

Understanding the Difference Between Autism and the Autistic Spectrum: A Focus on the South African Context

Ntombophelo Sithole-Tetani — 2024-10-21

Autism is a group of severe developmental disorders with impairments beginning before 30 months of age and characterized by a qualitative disturbance of social development and of language for communication, a stereotyped behaviour, and a lack of a broad set of interests. The expression of autism varies from one individual to the next. It is a communicative disorder and is not due to poor reception. The researchers drew their literature from reputable journal articles, book chapters from established publishers, and informal community conversations amid the researchers’ experiential intuition. Currently, South African children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) lack government support structures and rely primarily on families for assistance with education and therapy. An additional challenge is that in some South African black communities, autism is not recognized as a disorder. A study exploring differences in the nature, application, experience, and examination of social awareness and understanding of selected educators about new terminology in their environment found that local black teachers had less exposure to autism knowledge, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in their communities, and little understanding, awareness, or acceptance of this condition. This article underscores the crucial role of social service professionals, such as psychologists, registered counsellors, social workers, etc, in these communities. Their presence and active involvement provide hope in these challenging times. It recommends that they conduct psychotherapeutic education, which could involve awareness campaigns and counselling about psychotherapeutic education. Their role would be to provide support, guidance, and education to the community members, helping them to build their resilience to fight the coronavirus.

Student Teachers’ Resilience During The COVID-19 Pandemic: Navigating Remote Teaching Practice

Florence Mamoroleng Shange — 2024-10-21

This article explores student teachers’ resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and their ability to thrive in online teaching practice. Amid the pandemic’s unprecedented challenges, student teachers exhibited remarkable adaptability in navigating the shift to remote teaching. Through qualitative research and thematic analysis, this article delves into student teachers’ experiences, highlighting their positive encounters with online teaching methodologies and tools. The findings underscore the importance of resilience and adaptability in the dynamic field of education, emphasising the valuable skills student teachers attained through their engagement with online teaching. Furthermore, the article explores the advantages of online practical assessments, shedding light on innovative evaluation methods that may shape future educational practices. Overall, the insights gleaned from this research contribute to a deeper understanding of student teachers’ experiences during times of educational transformation. Recommendations are also offered to integrate online teaching methods into teacher training programmes to enhance these students’ resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

Enhancing Physical Science Education: The Integration of Digital Practical Work in Teaching Electrodynamics for Experiential Learning

Mabel Moloi — 2024-10-21

Digital practical work (DPW) has emerged as a highly effective and indispensable component of science education, enhancing and extending traditional laboratory experiences. DPW aims to complement physical laboratory experiments, particularly those that teachers may find challenging to conduct or lack the confidence to perform. In this study, a content training workshop on electrodynamics was implemented to showcase DPW's effectiveness. The workshop was designed to equip in-service physical science teachers with the skills needed for integrating digital tools into their teaching methods. To gather comprehensive data, the study utilized video recordings, discussions, and evaluation reports, providing rich qualitative evidence of DPW's effectiveness. These methods captured teachers' understanding of electromagnetic concepts, their experiences, and their perceptions of DPW. The findings revealed that DPW significantly enhanced teachers' knowledge of electrodynamics and their awareness of effective digital pedagogy. The study strongly recommends integrating DPW into physical science teaching, particularly when traditional laboratory work is impractical. Unlike conventional teaching that merely transmits information, physical science education requires hands-on, practical observation to support theoretical concepts and promote meaningful learning. DPW bridges this gap, ensuring that students receive a robust and engaging science education, regardless of the constraints of the physical laboratory environment.

Effectiveness of Scientific Calculators’ Usage in the Teaching and Learning of Grade 11 Parabola Functions to Improve Learner Performance

Olugbenga Adebayo Ogunsipe — 2024-10-21

The use of scientific calculators in teaching parabola functions has been shown to have significant effect in learner performance. This study examined the effectiveness of scientific calculators’ usage in the teaching and learning of Grade 11 parabola functions to improve learner performance. Bandura’s observational learning theory underpinned this study. A non-equivalent quazi-experimental design was espoused to collect data from the experimental and control groups. A pre-test and a post-test were administered to both experimental group and control group in the same day and at the same time, to avoid contamination of results. Wilcoxon-Rank sum test was used to determine the significant difference between the two study groups. The results showed that the experimental group performed significantly better than the control groupin the post-test after the implementation of scientific calculators in teaching parabola functions. The study suggests that scientific calculators can be used to teach parabola functions to improve learner performance and advance teacher content knowledge, pedagogical content knowledge and professional development.

Assessment of Item Parameter and Model-Data Fit of 4IR Teachers' Effectiveness Scale in Secondary Schools

Chidubem Deborah Adamu — 2024-10-21

In secondary schools in Southwest Nigeria, the Fourth Industrial Revolution Chemistry Teachers Effectiveness Scale (4IRCTES) items were evaluated for discrimination item parameter and model-data fit to the underlying construct. In this study, a descriptive survey research design was employed. The survey encompassed 4,986 Chemistry teachers in the southwestern region of Nigeria. 35 Chemistry teachers made up the study’s sample. 4IRCTES was the instrument utilised to collect the data. Research question two was based on the absolute overall model-data fit, or M2 statistic, whereas research question one used the Multidimensional Graded Response Model (MGRM) of the Item Response Theory (IRT) to analyse the item parameter (item discrimination). Result showed that items of 4IRCTES discriminated well between teachers with low effectiveness and teachers with high effectiveness. Finally, in the study, result showed that the MGRM of the IRT is the substantial model-data fit for the 4IRCTES. The study concluded that the 4IRCTES items effectively distinguished between teachers who were ineffective and those who were effective.