Prospective Teachers' Perceptions of Using Information and Communication Technologies in Biology Education: Insights from Some Colleges of Teacher Education in Ethiopia

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Prospective Teachers' Perceptions of Using Information and Communication Technologies in Biology Education: Insights from Some Colleges of Teacher Education in Ethiopia
Language: English
Authors: Adane Sifer Besir, Getachew Sime Feyissa, Mulugeta Yayeh Worku, Girma Tilahun Yimer
Source: Science Education International. 2025 36(1):15-24.
Availability: International Council of Associations for Science Education. Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Education, Buca, Izmir 35150, Turkey. Tel: +90-532-4267927; Fax: +90-232-4204895; Web site: http://www.icaseonline.net/seiweb/
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 10
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Biology, Science Education, Gender Differences, Pedagogical Content Knowledge, Technological Literacy, Teaching Methods, Technology Integration, Foreign Countries, Information Technology, Preservice Teachers, Teacher Education Programs, Student Attitudes, Self Efficacy
Geographic Terms: Ethiopia
ISSN: 1450-104X
2077-2327
Abstract: The use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for teaching and learning is widely acknowledged. However, there is limited research focusing on prospective teachers' (PTs) perceptions regarding its usage within specific subject areas, notably biology. This study is intended to explore PTs perceptions of using ICT in biology. Mixed-method approaches were used. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. The study subjects, 142 PTs, were selected using purposeful and stratified random sampling techniques. The result shows PTs had a positive perception of ICTs, with significant differences based on gender and ICT experience (p < 0.05). As a result, those with less ICT experience, along with females, tend to have a lower perception of ICT use, emphasizing the need for targeted support to bridge these gaps and empower them in ICT integration. The correlation analysis showed ICT usage is positively linked to PTs' perceived usefulness of ICT (r = 0.48) and their perceived ICT abilities (r = 0.62). Regression analysis revealed that 40.8% of PTs' ICT usage in biology is predicted by these factors, indicating a strong relationship. The study offers valuable insights for teacher education programs, emphasizing the need to enhance PTs' ICT skills and self-efficacy, which is critical for advancing educational goals in developing nations such as Ethiopia.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1469385
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:The use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for teaching and learning is widely acknowledged. However, there is limited research focusing on prospective teachers' (PTs) perceptions regarding its usage within specific subject areas, notably biology. This study is intended to explore PTs perceptions of using ICT in biology. Mixed-method approaches were used. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. The study subjects, 142 PTs, were selected using purposeful and stratified random sampling techniques. The result shows PTs had a positive perception of ICTs, with significant differences based on gender and ICT experience (p < 0.05). As a result, those with less ICT experience, along with females, tend to have a lower perception of ICT use, emphasizing the need for targeted support to bridge these gaps and empower them in ICT integration. The correlation analysis showed ICT usage is positively linked to PTs' perceived usefulness of ICT (r = 0.48) and their perceived ICT abilities (r = 0.62). Regression analysis revealed that 40.8% of PTs' ICT usage in biology is predicted by these factors, indicating a strong relationship. The study offers valuable insights for teacher education programs, emphasizing the need to enhance PTs' ICT skills and self-efficacy, which is critical for advancing educational goals in developing nations such as Ethiopia.
ISSN:1450-104X
2077-2327