EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY IN TEACHING BIOLOGY AT SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN CAPE COAST METROPOLIS

The main concern in education sector is how educational technology is integrated into teaching and learning and the strategies to use. This study explores the use of technology in biology teaching among senior high schools in the Cape Coast metropolis of Central Region. The study was guided by three specific objectives: To enquire from students on whether teachers incorporate technology in their teaching of biology, to find out from both students and teachers the types of technology available for teaching biology, to enquire from both students and teachers the types of pedagogical approaches used in teaching biology. The study applied survey research designed that incorporated quantitative approach. The sample of teachers 20 and students 100 were surveyed using questionnaire. Data was analyzed descriptively using SPSS. The study findings revealed that most used methods of teaching biology were question and answers, group discussion and demonstration. Books and chalk board/whiteboard were the two prevailing technologies used in the classroom for teaching biology, with chalkboard/whiteboard leading followed by books. Both teachers and students had little or no knowledge about the use of simulations and interactive whiteboard to facilitate the teaching and learning of biology. The study recommended that comprehensive workshops should be organized for teachers since the success of integration of technology and usage in the classroom is largely dependent on their skills. It suggested that the curricula of Teacher training Colleges and Universities should be enriched with TPACK content. The study also suggested other areas for further research as the same study should be carried in private senior high schools in Cape Coast and in other district before generalization is done.