A Survey to find out competencies for Teaching Biology at Secondary School level in Punjab

Abstract

Title: “A survey to find out competencies for teaching biology at secondary level in Punjab”

Pages: 165

Researcher: Zakia Khatoon

Supervisor: Dr. Muhammad Tayyab Alam Bukhari

Co-supervisor: Dr. Muhammad Maqsood Alam Bukhari

University: Foundation University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences(Islamabad)

Year: 2012

Level: PhD.

Biology teachers occupy an important position in the entire spectrum of education. We can equip our future generation with the latest techniques of problem solving, by investigating biology teachers’ competencies in the teaching of biology at secondary school level. It is at secondary school level, that students shift their reading abilities of narrative texts, to complex expository material. This study was based on biology teachers’ competencies in preparing biology students to enable them to face challenges of the 21st century. This study was aimed to investigate the required teaching competencies for biology teachers. This study also aimed to find out the existing level of teaching competencies of biology teachers through teachers’ perception. The objectives of the study were to determine gaps between existing and required competencies of biology teachers, and recommend remedial steps to fill these gaps. Population of this study comprised of all the teachers teaching biology in F.G. Secondary Schools in Punjab. The sample of the study consisted of all science teachers teaching biology, in fifty percent randomly selected F.G. Secondary Schools in Punjab. Stratified sampling technique was used for sample selection. A questionnaire for biology teachers was prepared. To ensure the reliability of the questionnaire, Cronbach’s alpha was used. The instrument was also revised in the light of feedback received from pilot testing. Data was collected through the questionnaire by personal visits and personal contacts. Data collected through questionnaires were analyzed with the help of mean, percentage, and chi-square. Major findings of the study indicated that most of the teachers were well qualified academically and professionally. They were aware of specific teaching skills and innovative student-centered teaching methodology, and its importance for producing creative thinking and problem solving abilities in students, but they were not implementing these teaching skills and methodologies in the classroom. Majority of the teachers were not fully aware how to use Computer and Internet. They were not competent in using problem solving method, and innovative teaching methods in the classroom. Major implications of the study were to prepare competent biology teachers by enhancing their specific teaching skills, for producing creative thinking and problem solving abilities in science students and to prepare the coming generation to meet the challenges of the future.