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Mrs Brownson

The document discusses the impact of computer simulation on students' academic performance in Biology within the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. It highlights the importance of modern educational technology, particularly computer simulations, in enhancing learning experiences and addressing challenges associated with abstract biological concepts. The study aims to investigate the effects of computer simulation and collaborative learning on the academic performance of male and female students in Biology, while also addressing the poor performance trends observed in recent years.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
30 views86 pages

Mrs Brownson

The document discusses the impact of computer simulation on students' academic performance in Biology within the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. It highlights the importance of modern educational technology, particularly computer simulations, in enhancing learning experiences and addressing challenges associated with abstract biological concepts. The study aims to investigate the effects of computer simulation and collaborative learning on the academic performance of male and female students in Biology, while also addressing the poor performance trends observed in recent years.

Uploaded by

Greatful Peace
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 86

COMPUTER SIMULATION AND STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERORMANCE IN

BIOLOGY IN OBIO/AKPOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF RIVERS


STATE

BY

WEGWU BROWNSON ITORO

0
CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the study

Education is essential for the development of a united and modern Nigeria. In a natural sense,

it is a tool for national development and a beneficial force for change in every country.

Education is a long term process that results in beneficial changes in people’s lives and

behaviour. It can also be defined as the process of learning or transmitting knowledge

through the use of instructions or other practical procedures. Secondary education in

particular has the obligation of equipping the students with the knowledge and skill needed

for the economic development of any nation. The bigger goal of secondary education is to

prepare individual for purposeful living within the society and higher education (FRN,

2014). As a result, senior secondary schools are to be comprehensive with a core curriculum

designed to widen students’ knowledge and out-look in a subject as Biology.

Biology I a unique field of study of natural science which deals with the study of living

things, It also involves the study of living and non-living organisation. Biologists study the

structure, growth, origin, functions, evolution and distribution of living things. (Biology

online, 2021) The objectives of Biology for senior Secondary curriculum as stipulated by

federal ministry of Education (F.M.E, 2019), are to enable students to acquire:

1. Meaning and important knowledge in Biology

2. Apply scientific knowledge to everyday life in personal matters, agriculture and

community health

3. Adequate laboratory fields and skills in Biology

4. Reasonable and functional attitude

1
Biology has been selected as an important science subject in senior secondary school, with

the aim of producing competent and innovative individual who can keep up with system’s

technological advances. So Biology students should work on problem solving skills, be

interested and develop critical and logical thinking processes. If these are to be achieved there

has to be a paradigm shift or a major change in how Biology is taught, especially in

secondary schools. Biology instruction should be goal oriented, and student-centred, which

may be accomplished when teachers are committed to provide an innovative and engaging

learning environment that enhances maximum accomplishment in Biology such as

collaborated learning strategy.

Today, the advancement in science and technology has led to the discovery of digital

technology in educational sector. Educational technology is created by integrated digital tools

into the classroom. Educational technology is defined by the Association for Educational

Communication and Technology as the research and ethical practices of enhancing learning

and improving performance through the creation, use and management of appropriate

technological process and resources. To this end, one of the purposes is to help students in

gaining knowledge and applying it to solve challenges when the need arises. When we talk

about technology in education, we refer to the utility of technologies like audio-visual aids,

machines and equipment such as TV, over-head projector, computers for education etc.

Technology is that element of development which Is almost found in every part of our

culture, affecting how we live, play, work and learn (Serhat, 2015). With technological

advancement in the world through the invention of mobile and wireless devices it has become

utmost necessary for the education sector to get a grip of this technology in the teaching-

learning process. The advent of digital equipment’s when properly integrated and utilized by

teachers can facilitate students learning and increase their performance (William, 2016).

Education has moved from being teacher-Centred to becoming learner or student-centred due

2
to technological advancements. As a result, 21 st century students are more familiar with

numerous digital instruments including smart phones, laptops to mention a few. As a result of

their exposure to digital technologies, 21st century learners (digital natives) can reason

critically and examine things differently when taught with stimulation.

Stimulations are instructional scenario where its learner is placed in a ‘’world’’ defined by

the teacher or instructor, simulation generates a reality within which students interact. The

teacher controls the parameters of this ‘’world’’ and uses it to achieve the desired

instructional results. The leaner experience the reality of the scenario and gather meaning

from it. Simulation therefore, is an innovative teaching method that is learner centred.

Simulation is the product that occurs when one creates the appearance or effect of something

else. Simulation gives students the chance to apply theory, develop critical skills, and provide

a welcome relief from the everyday assignments of reading and preparing for classes. One

good advantage of simulation is that it introduces an aspect of realism into the students’

experience. As an educational tool, students learn through applying of theory and decisions-

making to a simulated real-world business scenario, using simulation method, allow students

to project themselves into new classroom roles, help to improve classroom discussion, active

participation and transfer of knowledge.

Computer simulation enables learners to vie events, processes and activities that may not

have been available to them through interactive engagement. Simulations are environments in

which teachers can manipulate components of a system. Students can modify and observe

variables over time using simulation, which replicates the operation of a real world process or

system. As a result, students can use simulations to observe concepts that would be difficult

or impossible to notice in real life. Meanwhile the procedures encourage active participation

and understanding.

3
Computer simulation is a set of techniques that use computer to imitate the operation of

various real-world tasks or processes such aerobic and anaerobic respiration. Before moving

on to the next level, students are presented with numerous options to consider. The purpose

of using simulation systems in teaching is to reduce abstractness in science courses such as

biology.

Collaborative learning Is an alternate learning technique that can help students acquire high-

level thinking abilities while also boosting their confidence and self-esteem (Gate, 2018). It

has been discovered that when students collaborates, they produce a better learning

environment. Collaborative learning is an educational technique that includes working in

group to improve learning. Two or more learners work together to solve issues, complete

tasks, or learn new concepts in groups. Collaboration among instructors has a favourable

impact on student progress and encourages teachers to try new approaches to teaching.

Collaboration also aids teachers in planning activities that allows students or learners to work

and collaborate together in order to learn and gain growth from one as stated by Henry Ford

in Beas Development (2019). Coming together is the beginning, keeping together I the

progress and working together is success. Student need to be made comfortable working

together in the group to bring out their hidden potentials, these has to be done with the help of

the teacher acting as a facilitator.

Recently the performance of Biology students in External Examination has attracted attention

of stakeholders in the educational sector because it does not justify the huge fund. Human and

capital resources invested in the sector by both government and private sector. According to

Ogunniyi (2001) the performance of students in Biology in developing countries like Nigeria

is poor. Parents and stakeholders have also raised alarm over poor performance of students in

Biology over the years. Below is a replica of poor performance of Biology from 2018 – 2023

4
Table 1:1 statistics of Biology Result in WAEC 2018 – 2023

Years No of students No of No of %pass % fail


Students pass student fail
2018 367560 120560 247002 33 67

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Source:

It is as a result of this background that this study wants to investigate the effect of Computer

simulation and Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The focus of modern definition of educational technology is to facilitate learning and

improve performance of students through the use of technological equipment and procedures

importantly in teaching of science subject. Biology has been termed as a crucial science

subject in senior secondary school, with the aim of producing competent and innovative

individuals who can keep up with the system’s technology advances. Some abstract concepts

in Biology, such as cell division, genetics, chromosomes, Kreb’s cycle and respiration to

name but a threat to students’ academic performances. There is lack of enthusiasm for

answering question that arises from such abstract concepts or topics. Perhaps this could be as

a result of traditional teaching strategies that teachers on the other hand, impact these abstract

lessons without properly assessing students’ academic performance for a successful Biology

lesson. This in turn makes the parents of these students express their dissatisfaction in the

observed learning outcomes of their wards. These become a problem because knowing

5
students’ performance on a concept may give the teacher insight on how to teach the concept

next time. Hence the question is how computer simulation affects the academic performance

of students.

1.3 Aims of Study

The aim of this study is to examine the uses of computer simulation and students’ academic

performance in Biology

Specifically, the objectives are to,

1. Investigate the effect of computer simulation and students’ academic performance in

Biology

2. Determine the effect of computer simulation and male student’s academic performance in

Biology.

3. Ascertain the effect of computer simulation and female students academic performance

4. Examine the effect of collaborative learning and students’ academic performance in

biology

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of computer simulation on students’ academic performance in

Biology?

2. What is the effect of computer simulation on male student’s academic performance in

Biology?

3. What is the effect of computer simulation on female student’s academic performance in

Biology?

4. What is the effect of Collaborative learning on student’s academic performance in

Biology?

6
1.5 Hypotheses

1. Is there no significant difference in the effects computer simulation on students’

academic performance in Biology?

2. Is there no significant difference in the effect of computer simulation on male student’s

academic performance in Biology?

3. Is there no significant difference in the effects of computer simulation on female

student’s academic performance in Biology?

4. Is there no significant difference in the effect of collaborative learning on student’

academic performance in Biology?

1.6 Significance of the Study

In an effort to improve the teaching and learning of Biology In secondary schools and make

topics more appealing and engaging to students, this study will be significant to the

curriculum developers, school administrators, Biology teachers, students and future

researchers.

To Curriculum developers, this study will serve as a guide to the members on deciding the

standard science teaching strategies that should by adopted at secondary school level.

To the school administrators the study will be eye opening to see the effective use of

computer simulation and influence them to make effort towards acquiring instructional

equipment for teaching Biology.

The Biology teachers they will gain useful information from this study, the need to use

simulation systems to improve their instructional strength.

To the students the study is useful because studying Biology with simulation will make the

study or learning of Biology more concrete instead of abstract which will enhance their

academic performance both internally and externally in their examination.

7
To the future researchers, the findings of this study will expose them to interactive

instructional strategies, variables and also serve as empirical review to their study

1.7 Scope of the Study

This study focused on the use of computer simulation and academics performance in

Biology. Computer simulation is independent variable while students’ academic

performance serves as dependent variable.

The study involved senior secondary 2 (SSS 2) Biology in three approved public schools

Obio/Akpor local Government Area of Rivers State. The study covered some topics in SS 2

Biology such as Aerobic and Anaerobic Respiration which students will be taught with and

lesson notes were developed for experimental group and control group (conventional lesson

note format). The researcher chooses SS II students for the study due to the fact they have

gotten basic knowledge in Biology and they are preparing for their senior school certificate

examination.

8
CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

Literature related to this study were reviewed under the following sub-headings: conceptual

frame work, theoretical review and empirical review

2.1 Conceptual framework

Moderating Factor Dependent variable


Independent variable

Gender
Computer simulation
Student’s
Academic
Performance

Figure 2.1: Diagram showing conceptual Framework of study

(Source: Researcher’s design, 2021)

2.1.1 Information and Communication technology in Education.

At present information and communication technology are influencing every aspect of human

life. They are playing salient roles in work places, business, education and entertainment

among others. Many people recognize ICT as catalysts for change; change in working

conditions, handling and exchanging information, teaching methods, learning approaches,

scientific research and in accessing information. In this digital era, ICT use in the classroom

is important for giving student opportunities to learn and apply the required 21 st century

9
skills. ICT helps teachers to present their teaching attractively and be able to teach the learner

at any level of educational program. Today in Nigeria information and communication

Technology (ICT) exemplified by the internet and interactive multimedia are obviously an

important focus for future education and need to be effectively integrated into formal

teaching and learning especially in secondary education. A good way to think of ICT is to

consider all uses of digital technology that exist that help student to use information. Olele

and Abraham (2016) pointed out that today student will use different digital tools and

resources which are used for storing, managing and communicating. ICT covers any product

that will store, retrieve, manipulate, transmit and receive information electronically in a

digital form. For example, personal computers, digital television, email, robot.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) includes computers, the internet, and

electronic delivery systems such as radios, televisions, and projectors among others and is

widely used in today education field. ICT is considered a powerful tool for educational

change and reform. A number of previous studies have shown that appropriate use of ICT can

raise educational qualities and connecting to real life situations. Intends to expand access to

education. Through learning can occur anytime and anywhere. Online course materials, for

example, can be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a Teleconferencing classrooms allows

both learners and teachers to interact simultaneously with ease and convenience. Base on ICT

teaching and learning no longer depend exclusively on printed materials. Multiple resources

are on the internet and knowledge can be acquired through video clips, audio sound, and

visual presentation and so on. Current research has indicated that ICT assist in transforming a

teaching environment into a learner centred one. ICT also provide both learners and

instructors with more educational affordance and possibilities. More specific benefits of using

ICT are described below;

10
The merits of ICT in education have been _ in the literature. The use of ICT has been fund to:

Assist students in accessing digital information _ and effectively as Brush, _ and_ (2008)

have stated that, ICT is used as a tool for students to discover learning topics, solve problems

and provide solutions for the problems in the learning process. ICT makes knowledge

acquisition more accessible, and concepts in learning areas are understood while engaging

students in the application of ICT. The presence of ICT in education allows for new ways of

learning for teachers and students. ICTs are making dynamic changes in the society. They are

influencing all aspects of life. The influences are felt more and more at schools, because ICTs

provide both teachers and students with more opportunities in adapting teaching and learning

to individual needs, society is forcing schools aptly respond to this technical innovation

(Rathees wari, 2081).

Benefits of ICT in Education

1. ICT encourage collaboration: The presence of ICT in education allows for new ways of

learning for students and teachers. One just has to put a laptop or computer in the

classroom how this works. ICT naturally brings students (children) together where they

can talk and discuss what they are doing for their work and this in turn opens up avenues

for communication thus leading to language development.

2. ICT motivates Engaged and increases Retention: Society’s demand for a new

technology has not left out children and their needs. Children are fascinated with

technology and it encourages and motivates them to learn in the classroom. When ICT is

integrating into lesson, students become more engaged in the work. This is because

technology provides different opportunities to make it more fun and enjoyable in terms

of teaching the same things increased engagement, it is so that they will be able to retain

knowledge more effectively and efficiently. It is important for student’s to engage with

ICT so that it will improve their attainment levels, prepares students for an integrated

11
society dominated by ICT development. So that they_ the nation of using ICT as a tool

for lifelong learning. If one put a lot of engagement and this can lead to the development

of 21st century skills such as complex thinking, creative problems.

3. ICT brings inclusion: The benefit of ICT in education is of such that students in the

classroom can all learn from the curriculum material. Students with special needs are no

longer at a disadvantage as they have access to essential material and special ICT tools

can be used by students to make use of ICT for their own educational needs, through this

can open up new issues leading to the digital divide and providing access to ICT tools

and resources for those who are less fortunate

4. ICT promote higher-order thinking skills: One of the important skills for the 21 st century

which are evaluating, planning, monitoring and reflecting to mention a few. The

effective use of ICT in education demands skills such as explaining and justifying the use

of ICT in producing solutions to problems. Students need to discus, test and conjecture

the various strategies that they will use

2.1.2 Nigeria ICT policy in education

In 1989, the Federal Ministry of education was established to direct education system in

Nigeria which will oversee the activities going on in the ministry. These activities are as

follows:

1) Formulating of national policy in Education.

2) Collecting and collating data for purpose of education planning and financing

3) Maintaining uniform standards of education in the country controlling the quality of

education in the country through the supervisory role of the inspectorate services

department in the ministry. Harmonising Educational policies and procedures of all the

states of the federation through the education, affecting cooperation in educational matters

12
on an international scale and developing curricula and syllabuses at the national level in

conjunction with other bodies (Olawale, 2020).

The above mentioned functions of ministry of education which is been managed by the

minister explains that the minister is in charge of policy forming, planning, rules and

regulations, coordinate educational activities and developing curricular and syllabuses to suit

each level of educational system.

Change brings about growth in every system, educational system needs a huge transformation

to achieve a global action program and the transformation has to start by reforming

educational system in the area of ICT policy. The ICT policy of Education which was

formulated by the minister of education was informed to have standardized and coordinated

development of ICT in Education. it provides the needed guidance on expectations from all

stake holders in the entire process of ICT integration in Education, has its vision to have

education that is universally accessible, empowering inclusive and enriching. Its mission as to

meet the attaining and enhancing sustainable socio-economic developed global

competitiveness as well as he individuals ability to survive in a contemporary environment

focus area of the policy was a human capital development, in fracture research and

development, awareness and communication, governance, financing and monitoring and

evaluation (FME, 2019).

In present, the digital transformation of school system in all levels of education are still at the

very low level, the federal ministry of education been charged with policy formulation

monitoring and implementation are set to embark on their Job. The vision and mission of the

educational policy are seen as paper works publish for reference purpose, calculation system

in Nigeria are still suffering from inadequate policy implementation.

1. Many teachers are still not proficient in ICT.

13
2. Low research on ICT in education

3. Finding provided are largely inadequate

4. There is no regular review and update of existing IT curricular to meet societal needs

and many more. It is clear that the state of ICT in Nigeria is below global standard

which requires urgent attention and intervention.

The position of minister of education in Nigeria has enormous responsibility bearing in mind,

the low standard of education in the country. The minister of education in Nigeria needs to

restructure the education system using P21 guidelines which in partnership for 21 st century

knows whose idea is to equip new teacher with 21 st century knowledge and skills and for

them to learn how to integrate the learnt knowledge and skill into their classroom practice for

our nation to realize its goal of meeting the challenges of this century, firstly, bearing in mind

the inadequate implementation of education ICT policy in Nigeria the education minister

need to start by reformulating the national policy and incorporate core subjects mastery

understanding use of non-English language, including also entrepreneurial literacy , civil

literacy, health literacy etc. In the area of innovation skills will structure the circular in a way

that each syllabus will contain topic that will allow students to brainstorm, create new idea

and elaborate on their own idea to maximize creative effort. Critical thinking and problem

solving that will enable students to reason effectively to solve a problem.

Secondly, having in mind that majority of teachers are still not proficient in ICT, there is need

to incorporate information, media and technology skills in the system for teachers to know

how to access, evaluate, use and manage information (i.e. information literacy). Also how to

analyse media messages and understand, and to utilize appropriate media creation tools.

Thirdly, understanding the fact that there is low research in ICT in the nation minister need to

include ICT literacy in the system which will result to enhance the teachers on how to use

14
theology as a tool to research, organize, evaluate and communicate information also how to

use digital technology like (GPS, computer, PDAS). Apply a fundamental understanding of

support system in 21st century professional development of teachers to balance direct

instruction with project oriented teaching method and also create learning practice, human

support and physical environment that will encourage teaching and learning of 21 st century

skills.

Furthermore, bearing in mind the duty of minister of education, which has to harmonize

educational policies and producers of all states of the federation, through the instrumentality

of the gap in area of review and update of existing curricula to meet societal needs. ICT

policy of the country need to incorporate 21 st century curriculum and instruction which

focuses on providing opportunities for applied 21st century skills across content areas and

bring competence based approach to bearing. This will guide the national council of

education applying ICT in their local content and also ensure that there are groups that are to

review and update curricula at quarterly basis in consideration of current half-life of

knowledge. Moreover as a minister of education bearing in mind the out dated version of

some policy in the system, will periodically examine the policy to identify those that does not

meet current reality in the system, knowing fully well the dynamic advancement of ICT

globally, despite the tremendous change in the economy and society. The different

technological resource are still finding its way to the classroom through the learners due to

the fact they are digital in nature, makes them easily adapt to the wave of technology without

the knowledge of their teacher

To adapt and keep up

In an ever changing working environment today, students (Katie 2021) needs to understand

and utilize life and career skills, the minister will have to incorporate life and career skills in

15
the curricular for flexibility and adaptability of this skill and also initiate self-direction which

involves management of set goals, tangible success, utilize time and manage work load and

be able to monitor, define and prioritize and complete task without been supervised.

21st century skills involve the necessary abilities that these present learners need to succeed in

their future career. However, it is the duty of the minister of education in Nigeria to establish

rules and regulations which given standards and procedures incorporating all the 21 st century

skills in the curricular in two levels of education thereby fixing each abilities in a suitable

position ranging from secondary level to tertiary level, these skills is what make our students

employable, the prior knowledge to set themselves up for huge success.

In addition to close the gap in non-implementation of ICT policy in education the minister of

education need to incorporate the use of 21st century skill that can help our students to be

better learners which involves including in the curriculum critical thinking and

communication can make a difference we need to include teaching information, media and

literacy skills, and infusion of Cs which are critical thinking, creativity collaboration and

communication which will allow learner think logically, accessing information and

empowering them to be innovative in thinking and problem solving, enlighten them on the

power of working together to achieve a common goal and conveying idea by using variety of

methods

The education minister are meant to control the quality of education in the country through

the supervisory role of the inspectorate services department within the ministry, incorporate

the skills needed to measure how well someone is able to prioritize, plan and manage work,

this brings about independent in learning, understanding that learning begets productivity,

and also include initiative that is mostly called intrinsic motivation in the curricula. This

relates to employees starting projects, creating plans and executing strategies. All these have

16
to be embedded in learning process to achieve sustainable development goals of education in

the globe.

Furthermore, the minister should use his/her position to encourage some private sector to join

hands with government to build, develop, utilization and sustenance of ICT manpower to

achieve an ICT enhanced education using what DSTV CEO did in south Africa for

illustration that leads to making South Africa ICT compliance in education and follow up the

implementation process of policy to ensure that all responsible to carry out the processes are

been monitored closely. Access and evaluate on monthly basis and any dap seen during

assessment can be closed up with delay.

Financing of policy is crucial, the minister should ensure that government use innovative and

creative financing models for ICT in educational matter should not be diverted or syphon

rather should be utilize for ICT in particular to ensure all levels of education has ICT

equipped laboratory for learning.

Policy is seen as a principle of action adapted by an individual or organization to guide them

on how things should be done, so education policy are the principles that are made by

government in educational sector that govern the operation of education systems. Education

are in many forms which include; early childhood, kindergarten, 12 th grade or the basic and

secondary 4 years college and job training can linearly affect the education people engage in

at all ages. To this end, if one is appointed minister of education, then this position should be

used to create policy that will incorporate strategic plan activities that are workable even in

other countries. Areas that need improvement in education policy are curricular content,

school infrastructure investment, teacher pay tracking the values expected to uphold and

model by school, teaching methods, teaching aiders or instructional material.

These are to be looked into to achieve a desirable goal of been a world class education.

17
2.1.3 Concept of the 21st Century Education

21st century education seeks to give students the abilities they need to function effectively in

this digital age. The talents of 21st century are, more focused on learning, sharing, and using.

The term 21st century learner became associated with technology. These skills are also

considered collection of new skills that are linked to digital technology. There are skills also

flexible approaches to knowledge supporters of the need for 21 st century learners also argue

that the current education system needs to be changed in order to accommodate the needs of

today’s students. This idea is that knowledge has become more of a commodity that is,

something that can be used and stored in people. This idea is supported by vast generational

change that has occurred. The rapid emergence and evolution of digital technologies has

greatly accelerated the pace at which education is been developed. This has caught the

education community by surprise as to how to develop more digitally agile learners.

According to prensky (2016) the technological upbringing of today’s students has changed

the brain processes and attitudes towards information. This generation digital natives are also

prone to multitasking and the use of communication technology. These terms imply a change

in the way we think about learning, and it is necessary for educators to stay current with this

new generation. According to prensky, education must change its methods in order to meet

the needs of the new generation (prenskky, 2016).

Role of Education in the 21st Century

Education is a crucial part of preparing learners to become contributing members of society.

It has not altered the course of education but it has also shaped the world in a major way:

1. Instruction should be learner centred

18
2. The instructors or educator should not be the sole source of information in the

classroom; instead student should be able to self-learn new information (Mynabayeva et

al., 2017). The classroom should be interactive.

3. Education should be collaborative

Students must learn to collaborate with one another. Collaborative learning is a method of

teaching that encourages students to form groups and tackle problems collaboratively. When

students work in a group situation they have various advantages (Nuiteg, 2017). The

teacher’s role or the instructor’s role is to promote collaboration rather than competition. A

responsible student should be encouraged to work with others to uncover, compare and build

knowledge value. Collaboration should, be dynamic, and students should be able to

understand and adapt to the varied qualities and abilities that individuals’ can bring to a

project.

1) Learning should have context

The term ‘student centred’ does not mean that the instructor relinquishes complete control

over to the students in the classroom. The instructor provides feedback on necessary abilities

while encouraging students to learn in a variety of ways. The instructor can aid learners in

understanding how to apply their talents in their daily life. Students can consider something

considerably more motivating if they can comprehend the worth. Due to lack of learner

preparation for specific tasks and jobs, it is important to take a broader approach and teach

skills that may apply in a variety of situation. Lecturers are useless if they have no impact on

a student’s life outside of the classroom.

19
2) Schools should be integrated with society

For learners to be taught to be responsible citizens there must be role models for them.

Schools also aim to achieve this by organizing activities for the school community,

encouraging students’ to join committee or participate such as neighbourhood clean-ups

(Mynbayeva et al.., 2017). With the power of technology and internet abilities, today’s

students will be able to accomplish even more. Our culture no longer exists solely inside the

confines of the school. It now encompasses the entire world

2.1.4 21st Century Pedagogies

According to Armstrong in innovatemyschool. com (2017) teaching strategies refers to

methods to help to the desired course contents and be able to develop achievable goals in the

future. Teaching strategies identify the different available learning methods to enable

instructors to develop other right strategies to deal with the target group identified.

Assessment of the learning capabilities of learners provides a key pillar in development of a

successful teaching strategy. Strategy is an overall plan to achieve an objective and teaching

method and how it is executed. Teaching strategy is more of a general term that refers to the

basis of teaching plan. Specific teaching methods are ways in which one teaches.

The University of Tennessee Chattaneoga (2019)

Identified seven principles good for improving teaching and learning and they are;

1. Encourage contact between students and faculty: building report with students is very

important. The contact between students and teachers are vital to the student’s success.

One of the main reasons students leave school is the feeling of isolation that they

experience. If concern is shown, it will help students get through difficult times and keep

working.

20
2. Develop reciprocity and co-operation among students. When students are encouraged to

work as a team, more learning takes place. Characteristics of good learning are

collaborative and social not competitive and isolation. Working together improves

thinking and understanding.

3. Encourage active learning: learning is an active process students are not able to learn

much by only sitting in classes listening and giving answers to questions, they must be

able to talk about it, relate it to past experience and apply it to their daily lives. Students

need to make learning a part of them.

4. Give prompt feedback: In order for students to benefit from courses, they need

appropriate feedback on their performance when starting out students need help in

evaluating their current knowledge and capabilities. Within the classroom, students need

frequent opportunities to perform and receive suggestions for improvement. Throughout

their time in college and especially at the end of their college career, student need

chances to reflect on what they have learned what they still need to know, and how to

access themselves.

5. Emphasize time on task: learning needs time and energy. Efficient time-management

skills are critical for students. By allowing realistic amounts of time of effective learning

for students and effective teaching for teacher to occur. The way the institution defines

time expectations for students, faculty, administrators and other staff can create the basis

for high performance from everyone.

6. Communicate high expectation: expect more and you will get it. The poorly prepared,

those unwilling to exert themselves, and the bright and motivated all need high

expectations. Expecting students to perform well becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy

when teachers and institutions hold high standards and make extra efforts.

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7. Respect diverse talents and ways of learning: there are many different talents and

learning styles to the classroom, students that excel in the seminar room may be all dumb

in the laboratory or studio, and vice versa. Students need the opportunity to show their

talents and learning ways that work for them. Then they can be guided into new ways of

learning that are not easy for them

A teaching strategy concern itself with comprehensive principles, pedagogy and strategies

used for classroom instruction. This means that if a teacher wants to vary his or her teaching

strategy it must have a bearing on what fits his/her students age, interest, student’s previous

knowledge, time allocation. Education offers change as new facts, skills, information and

methods about learning and learners. These have kept teachers, educational planners and

administrators on their to as regards the weight of a changing society and are constantly

probing for innovative ways of making teaching more effective, teaching strategy is a

systematic way of doing something which involves an orderly logical arrangement of steps

that is more procedural. Educationists have categorized teaching strategy based on the type of

learning activity, traditional and modern acquisition of knowledge.

2.1.5 Concept of 21st Century Teachers

Teachers have vital role to play, teachers have tremendous responsibility in shaping the life

of an individual. The teacher is the backbone of the society, the teacher is the backbone of

society. The teacher shares the responsibility of reconstructing a society. He acts as a social

reformer. Quality teacher for quality education and many events are taking place around the

world to promote that idea from the grass roots up to the highest levels of governments.

Now I can say that educational system around the world are under immense pressure to use

technology to teach the students skills and knowledge that they require in the 21 st century, the

long experience of teacher with traditional mode of learning is challenging to embed

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technology in teaching and learning process. The professional teachers continually develop

their develop their pedagogical use of technology to support teaching learning process,

curriculum, development, assessment and evaluation of teaching –learning, technology

support effective professional development of the teachers. Transformation of educational

process has started and moved towards learner centred learning. The new learning

environment can be created without integration of technology, however technology proved

powerful tool to help learners to access past knowledge, collaborate with others, share

knowledge

Characteristics of 21st century teachers

Learner-centred classroom and personalized instructions the days of spoon feeding have

ended now, as students have access to any possible information it is desirable to give

personalized instructions to students as they differ in personalities, goals, aims, needs etc. by

allowing students to choose on their own their intrinsic motivation increases and make more

efforts to learn on their own.

Students as Producers

These days, students are treated as digital natives and producers of any digital content.

Students are laced with recent and best tools, although they seldom use it beyond

communicating with family and friends. Every student has expensive devices which have

capacities to produce blogs infographics and tutorials, students are still asked to switch off

these devices and work on hands on. When students are given opportunity they can make

creative blogs, stories and fee proud to share with others.

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Project based learning

These days students conduct their research contact experts create final project and share all

using devices in hand. They only need guidance from teachers, students compare information

from different sources give feedback to peers, convey on ideas and so on.

Learn new technologies

The main requirement for providing quality education is the integrating technology with

teaching to create learning environment which fulfil the needs of a group of students. It is

useful for students to have own hands on experience. As technology is developing day and

night, learning a tool once for all is not an option. The new technology is new for the

beginners as well as experienced teachers.

Go global

Today it is possible to have first-hand experience of other countries, by teaching students

how to use the tools in their hands to visit any corner of this world, make us more

knowledgeable and sympathetic.

Be smart and use smart phones

Students are to be encouraged to view their devices as worthy tools which assist knowledge

(not distraction). Teaching students how to find answers they need and to be independent.

The benefit for teacher is the personalization and the freedom for students to access

resources. This often encourages individual learning and allows students to choose what their

own suitable approaches.

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Blog

Blogging is one of the professional activities. The use of blogs in educational setting

produces several benefits. Blog can be used as a platform to post homework, assignments,

projects, ask for help, share resources and so on. As blogging is purely a writing activity, but

it requires reading, reading more books, other blogs, articles and so on. It also leads one’s

own professional development. The blogging promotes critical and analytical thinking,

increases access, social interaction with others. You don’t have to be great to start, but you

have to start to be great!!! Zig zag her.

Go Digital

Another important attribute is to go paperless. Today’s students are deeply involved in the

digital world. Social networking, online games and tools as mobile phones, I pads are

everyday use of students. Very often there is digital disconnect in learning environment. One

can organize teaching resources and activities on one is own website and the integration of

technology take learning experience to different levels sharing links and discussing topics

online teacher need to make a shift to become mentors, coaches and even artists.

Collaborates

Technology provides powerful new tools to assist communication beyond classroom. It

allows collaboration between students and teachers. To enable classroom activities look like

real world by making digital resources, lectures, presentations and projects together with

other educators and students. The educator plays the duty of a facilitator of collaboration

between local, national and global communities use twitter chat.

The cheapest and most efficient way to share one’s own professional development, share

research and ideas is twitter chat. It is one of the ways to stay updated with current issues in

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the field, going to conferences is no longer the only way to meet others or build professional

learning networks.

Connect

An educator often talks about how helpless they fell when it comes to reach out to students.

Technology allows us to connect anyone, anywhere anytime. Technology helps us connect

with likeminded individuals. Just connect via social media: follow, join and ask.

Build positive Digital footprint

Become proficient with technology, build a positive digital footprint. Living in this time

gives us an opportunity to contribute and share our unique point of view.

To maintain professional behaviour both in class and online help in building positive digital

footprint and describe proper actions for students. Educators guide students on how to use

social media, how to produce publish important content, content, create sharable resources.

The digital literacy is very often defined as literacy in the 21st century.

Innovate

The main purpose behind and innovation in technology is to provide productivity, comfort

and a better life education have to expand teaching toolbox and try new application examples

replacing textbooks with web resources, teaching with social media, students love using

Facebook for classroom discussions and announcements they appreciate new knowledge not

new tools. They love new, more interesting and productive ways of using new applications.

Educational system around the world are under immense pressure to use technology to teach

students skills and knowledge that they require in the 21 st century than the long experience of

teachers or educators with traditional mode of learning. It is challenging to embed technology

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in teaching-learning process. The professional teachers continually develop their pedagogical

use of technology to support teaching-learning, curriculum development assessment and

evaluation of teaching- learning. Technology support effective professional development of

teachers/educators, transformation of educational process has started and moved towards

learner centred learning. The new learning environment cannot be created without integration

of technology; however technology proved powerful tool to help learners to access vast

knowledge, collaborate with others and share knowledge.

Teachers in Nigeria

Teaching is very noble profession that shapes the character of an individual. Effective

teachers model and apply the ISTE standards for students as they design, implement and

access learning experience to engage students and improve learning they design, implement

and access learning experience to engage students and improve learning, professional

practices and provide positive models for students, colleagues and the community. All

teachers should meet the following standards and performance indicators. The teachers are

facilitators of the learning. The focus of a 21 st century educator is on students by developing

higher order, thinking skills, effective communication, collaboration, and other skills that

they need in the 21st century. The educator must develop new teaching strategies that are

radically different. The educator role is of guides and facilitator, not mere providers of

knowledge. The students must be engaged in learning and provided instructions using a

variety of methods and pedagogical approaches aided with technology.

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Characteristics of a 21st century teacher that distinguish him from the traditional

teacher

Teachers have to think globally

It is agreed that the world have shrunk irrespective of a teacher teaching in local or

international school. As teachers need to develop new generation of learners who think and

act globally. So teacher must include the examples and narrative across the world, apart from

familiar realities and daily experiences.

Teachers have to develop sensitivity towards crossing cultural differences and diversity:

As the students seem to work locally, yet they are connected to the students around the world,

unconsciously. So many students are likely travel to faraway places having diverse cultural

environments, to work there. The capacity to manage cultural differences gives them an edge

in competitive future work places.

Teachers have to be technologically knowledgeable

All teachers must continually upgrade their skills particularly technical skills irrespective of

their subject area, resource pools, and school settings. They need to increase their levels with

changing technology.

Teachers have to build partners hips and alliances beyond classrooms

Teachers must enrol under subject experts to teach them the curriculum so that learning may

be effective and applied to the real world. Such as listening to an educationist lecture in a

video clip may help that is substitute to inviting an educationist into the classroom.

Opportunities for students, like to meet real life educationist/science educators/subject

experts to whom they can pose question directly, make an everlasting impact on them.

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Teachers have to share learning inside the four walls:

In reality, teachers learn from students and vice versa. The teachers need to accept the

importance and necessity of shared learning in classrooms. It challenges traditional

classrooms, by making learning continuous process. It endows new meaning to teaching-

learning process and help teachers to accept that learning never stops. Thus, it makes the

educational experience rewarding and richer.

Among other characteristics teachers must possess the following:

i) Teaching-learning must be student centred

ii) The teacher need to use new computing devices while teaching

iii) The teacher has to support active learning in classroom.

iv) The teacher has to create an enabling environment for learning to occur.

v) The students must be assessed on the bases of performances.

vi) The teacher should support collaborative teaching.

Technology plays a vital role in developing these characteristics in a teacher, as technology

changes constantly the teacher is constant to drive the learning spirit among students, day by

day, guiding, motivating students to do better every day and realize their dreams.

There is an urgent need that teacher have to work at the extreme limit. Public education itself

struggles with big challenges, from health epidemics to economic issues. The answer to these

challenges Is improving teachers training to have great influence on the students experiences

which they have in classrooms. The government must spend more money for preparation

programmes and teachers themselves must demand better training. If four things are followed

having a great aim, acquiring knowledge, hard work and perseverance then things should be

in place.

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The 21st century teaching is however a different perspective, learning could never happen the

way it is happening these times. Learning happens everywhere, all the time, on any topic,

assisting any learning style.

Great students are the results of great teachers. The student’s achievement is influence by

many factors. The most important influencer is inspiring and informed teachers so, it is

significant to have close view on how we train and support beginners, from experience and

technologically informed teachers.

Teacher Preparation

Teacher-preparation programs provide educators wish the tools, mentors, hands-on

experience which they need to begin their career. These programs emphasize on subject

matter mastery and under the guidance of experienced mentors. Student teachers are provided

with many opportunities to spend time in real classrooms. Like as in medicine, law,

engineering, professionals have opportunities to lean through examine case studies/histories,

participating in internships, best practices, same is the case with teacher preparation program

which allow student teacher to apply learning theory in real classroom.

Many universities and colleges are reframing their schools of education to emphasize on

content knowledge, use more and more educational technologies, innovative training

programs, create schools of professional development with an intention at career switchers

and students who want to earn a degree online.

Teacher-Induction Programs

There is inadequate and uneven support, assistance, encouragement for new teachers. Many

times new teachers are allotted most challenging classes and schools with little or no support

and supervision. In first five years, almost half of all teachers leave their profession, so

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special care must be taken to make them available early and satisfactory, assistance,

encouragement to a great extent then they are being assigned to demanding school

environments.

For the successful development of novice teacher, mentoring and instructions from some

experienced colleagues in critical. The new teachers learn from practices, analyse-their

teaching through good induction programs.

Continuous Professional Development

Professional development is training provided to teachers for some time to promote

development in all aspects. Professional development for teachers is more than training or

classes as it is an agent to change classroom practice. It is important and necessary for

experienced teachers to go through continuous and regular training to learn from one another.

Teachers remain up to date on new research on how children learn, new tools and resources,

emerging technology and so on by, continuous professional development. The professional

development which is continuous, practical collaborative, derived from working with learners

and understanding their culture.

Research has proved hat teaching quality is the important and powerful school-related agent

which improves learning and achievement of learner. The schools are important to develop

high quality teaching.

The most effective way to promote learning and educational opportunity in schools is

constructing systems which assist teacher is continuing professional learning and

improvement of teaching practice. The systems that effectively assist teacher development

include administration support for professional learning, collaborative job-embedded

feedback cycles and so on. In this 21 st century technology is a vital instrument to improve the

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learning of the leaners. Computers are abundant in most schools. In today’s education the

major problem is lack of technology integration in schools/classroom. Providing students

with opportunities to interpret and construct meaning and present data in meaningful ways to

their instructors and peers, instructional technology is associated with increased academic

achievement and may increase student motivation for school work. To use relevant

technology in designing, developing, implementing and assessing instruction is the main aim

of instructional technology. Students have technology help students to create meaningful

personalized learning experiences even outside classrooms.

1) Concept of Innovation in Education

Innovation in education can be seen as a careful effort made toward the identification and use

of ideas and information, concerning the realization of greater educational outcomes. It can

involve the use of technological devices to either sustain or disrupt the conventional teaching

process in order to improve the academic performance of learners. Innovation is the anchor

which the educational system revolves to meet the 21 st century needs of learners. Most of the

time new concepts, ideas, principle and techniques are initiated and incorporated into the

Watson (2021) defined, educational innovation as sudden changes in the educational sector

which can either descript or sustain the educational practice at any level.

Innovation is classified into two, and they are, disruptive innovation and sustaining

innovation.

i) Disruptive Innovation

Disruptive innovation involves the introduction of new ways of doing things or completely

taking over an existing structure by a new one within a particular system. This may imply

replacing an existing practice with a new one. In education, disruptive innovation can mean a

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practice or technique aimed at enhancing qualitative education. For example, the introduction

of E-learning system of education in Nigeria is a typical example of disruptive system of

education because it has come to disrupt the existing system of teaching and learning.

ii) Sustaining Innovation

Olulube et al (2009) observed that innovation has created rich global resources which are

important for enriching meaningful educational outcomes thereby encouraging the 21 st

century learning skills among learners. This is so because of the inception of technological

devices into the classroom for teaching and learning such as digital recorders, interactive hite

boards, multimedia projectors and smartphones which have come to sustain and improve

educational practices. The introduction of innovative teaching technique such as blended

learning approach where learners can learn both online and face-to-face is a sustaining

innovation since it is supplementing the traditional teaching technique with the aim of

improving the academic performance of learners. Sustaining innovation is an instrument used

in enhancing sustainable development in education because it provides learners with the

opportunity of exploring their learning content even outside their learning environment.

2) Blended Learning Technique

Blended learning technique is the learning technique that combine classroom learning and

online learning processes (Noni, Abdullah and is mail, 2017). Blended learning is that

approach that brings together different learning models to create a learning environment most

suitable for students Graham (2006) considered blended learning to be that approach that

brings together. The traditional face-to-face teaching and online learning; Also, Kiviniem,

(2014) defined blended learning as the learning model that combines online and face-to-face

components into one new module that is view as one course. That is blended learning

approach should not be viewed as a strange mix of the two approaches (online and traditional

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approach) but a synchronized approach that is now seen as working together. According to

Lalima and Dangwal (2017), blended learning is an innovative approach that encourages the

synchronization of the acquaintances of both traditional teaching in classroom and ICT

supported learning module (offline and online).

The definition of blended learning as the combination of online learning approach and face-

to-face approach has been contested as reported by Benson, Anderson and Oons (2011). The

contest was as a result of the argument that such definition ignores the need for course design

and re-engineering of the pedagogical process (Vanghan cited in Benson, Anderson and

Oons, 2011). That is, blended learning goes beyond introducing technology to traditional

classroom teaching: It exceeds putting some educational content online for easy access by the

students. Vanghan is of the idea that blended learning definition should not be narrowed but

expanded to include the design of the course and pedagogical process of delivering the couse,

with the blended approach. Also, Oliver and Tingwell cited in department (2012), argued that

blended learning will become redundant when it is seen as the practice of mixing traditional

classroom approach with technology. Earlier on, Singh (2003) had opined that blended

learning is based on the fact that learning is not a onetime act but a continuous process that

incorporates Various learning media. Department of education and early childhood

development (2012) defined blended learning, as it is practiced in Victorian schools to ‘refer

to the planned implementation of a learning model that integrates student-centred traditional

in class learning with other flexible learning methodologies using immobile and web based

online (especially collaborative) approaches in order to realise strategic advantages for the

educational system’. This shows that the blended process has to be properly planned and

deliberately structured with the integration of appropriate technologies that will aid in

realizing the strategic goals set.

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Furthermore, Aretio (2018) defined blended learning as ‘an integration of means resources,

technologies, methodologies , activities, strategies and both face-to-face and distant learning

techniques to satisfy each specific learning need From the above definitions one could say

that blended learning as a term on its own is not mainly a combination of online and offline

learning. It could be seen as a combination of various educational methods, approaches and

techniques to achieve a particular learning goal. With the numerous definitions that many

authors have given concerning blended, learning is viewed ad arguments, in this study

blended learning is viewed as the deliberate combination of aspects of conventional face-to-

face instruction with online learning approach, taking into consideration the design and

pedagogy to produce a blend that is more student-centred and encourages self-paced learning.

2.1.6 ISTE Standards for Students

The international standard for technology in education (ISTE) has a stipulated procedure of

what students are to do to achieve a better learning irrespective of their geographical

locations. Students can use ISTE stands to articulate and set personal learning goals, develop

strategies leveraging technology to achieve them and reflect on the learning process itself to

improve learning outcomes students create networks and customize their earning

environment in many ways that support the learning process. Chris 200k (2021) ISTE

standards can enable students in many ways as follows.

i. Enabling students to utilize technology to seek feedback that informs and improves

their practice and to demonstrate their learning in many ways.

ii. Promoting students understanding of the fundamental concepts of technology

operations, demonstrating the ability to choose, use and troubleshoot current

technologies and are able to transfer their knowledge to explore emerging

technologies.

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iii. As digital citizens; students cultivate and manage their digital identity and reputation

and are aware of the permanence of their actions in the digital world.

iv. It encourages students to engage in positive, safe, legal and ethical behaviour when

using technology, including social interactions online or when using networked

devices. Students demonstrate an understanding of and respect for the rights and

obligations of using and sharing intellectual property. Students manage their personal

data to maintain digital privacy and security and are aware of data collection

technology used to track their navigation online.

v. Knowledge constructor; students plan and employ effective research strategies to locate

information and other resources for their intellectual or creative pursuits.

vi. Students evaluate the accuracy perspective, credibility and relevance of information

media, data or other resources

vii. Students source information from digital resources using variety of tools and methods

to create collectives of artefacts that demonstrate meaningful connections or

conclusions

viii. Students build technology by actively exploring real-world issues and problems,

developing ideas and theories and pursuing answers and solutions

ix. Innovative designers: students know and use a deliberate design process for generating

ideas, testing theories, creating innovative artefacts or solving authentic problems.

x. Students select and use digital tools to plan and manage a design process that considers

design constraints and calculated risks. Students develop, test and refine prototypes as

part of a cyclical design process.

xi. Students exhibit a tolerance for ambiguity, perseverance and the capacity to work with

open-ended problems.

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xii. Students formulated problem definitions suited for technology assisted methods such as

data analyse abstract models and algorithmic thinking in explaining and finding

solutions.

xiii. Students collect data or identify relevant data sets use digital tools to analyse them, and

represent data in various ways to facilitate problem solving and decision.

xiv. Students break problems into component parts, extract key information, and develop

descriptive models to understand complex systems or facilitate problem-solving.

a. Students understand how automation works and use algorithmic thinking to develop a

sequence of steps to create and test automated solutions

xv. Global collaborator; students use digital tools to connect with learners from variety of

background and cultures engaging with them in ways that broaden mutual

understanding and learning.

xvi. Students use collaborative technologies to work with others, including peers, experts

or community members, to examine issues and problems from multiple viewpoints.

xvii. Students contribute constructively to project teams, assuming various roles and

responsibilities to work effectively toward a common goal. Students explore local

and global issues and use collaborative technologies to work with others to investigate

solution.

2:1.7 Traditional Classroom (Conventional Teaching Method)

A traditional classroom is a place where a teacher moderates and regulates the flow of

information and knowledge and students are expected to developing their knowledge of a

subject outside of school through homework exercises. Here, students main resource is their

teacher or instructor who only teaches them face-to-face. It involves a standard curriculum

delivered by a teacher in-person. Standardized tests are administered at regular intervals to

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test students comprehension. This model is where students time, place and pace of learning

remain constant.

Traditional methods of teaching are a thing of the past in which teachers are the controller of

the class where they teach and take the complete responsibility of the learning environment.

All the duties and powers are vested in the teacher and they, being lecturer in the class, play

the role of an instructor for the students and also the decision maker for taking the decision of

what to teach and how to teach.

For the teachers, students come to school to gain knowledge information, which they gain

from teachers. Teachers are the main source of knowledge. However, for time being the

methods of teaching has been changed but the main objective remains the same that is

teaching learning is the aim of teaching, as much as a student learns, a teacher get success in

their work. The process of teaching takes place mainly in the classroom which is one o the

traditional methods of teaching. In the classroom a number of students sit together and learn

the content delivered by teacher and they master knowledge through the practice. Features of

traditional methods of teaching that are still followed in the schools are;

 In traditional teaching methods, classrooms are teacher centric

 The teachers are the main source of knowledge in the traditional method of teaching.

They take the responsibility of knowledge dispensers, not the facilitators.

 In traditional teaching methods, talk and chalk methods are highly used.

 Regimented classroom are the focus in the traditional method of teaching.

 As the traditional method of teaching is teacher Centric, it shows lack of collaboration

and group learning is students, teachers give lectures and students learn

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 In traditional teaching the main minute of teacher is to prepare students for exams than

teach them and make them understand the concept and syllabus. Students learn. There is

no proper alignment that can be seen between objectives, activities and assessment in

traditional teaching.

These are the traits of traditional teaching methods which do not seem suitable during the era

of technology. As, we are in the 21st century, it demands changes in the traditional education

and old education system to cope up with the modern time. Teachers are now trying to apply

the best method of teaching for student to make them meet the needs of students in a

meaningful way.

Traditional teaching methods which are also known as conventional teaching methods are

still used in schools at a wider scale. In the traditional teaching methods, teacher ask students

to recite and memorize the content of study and what they teach in the classroom and also

students one by one recite the lesson when their turn come. Except for those who are reciting,

their students listen and wait for their turn. In this way, the whole lesson is complete by

students. Then students are asked to memorize the lesson and on the basis of recitation,

teachers take assignment, written test or oral test.

Traditional teaching methods are practised in the classroom in such a way that it makes

students feel reward for their effort which they put into the classroom during periods of each

subject. Rules and regulations and exercised in the classroom in such a way that it keeps

students behaviour in check. These rules and regulation derived from established customs

which schools had been using for many years successfully. Teachers are responsible to impart

the knowledge and maintain the standards of behaviour in the school.

Figure of Traditional method of teaching


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The education system has been transforming and is introducing new methods of teaching

which have a completely different angle and approach towards learning and teaching. In

modern teaching methods, teachers teach every student on a different level and do not

consider everyone. They assume all students are different and apply different educational

practices on them individually. They consider the needs of every student and deliver

accordingly. Unlike old education, progressive teaching methods are based on activity,

questioning, explaining, demonstrating and using collaborative techniques.

The back-to-basics traditional education methods also known as conventional education is

still widely used in schools. The old fashioned way of teaching was all about recitation. For

example, students would sit in silence, while one student after another would take it in turns

to recite the lesson until each one been called upon. The teacher would listen to each

student’s recitation and they were expected to study and memorize their assignments. At the

end of the module a written test or oral examination would be conducted; this process was

called assignment study recitation test.

The way in which traditional methods were taught to ensure that students were rewarded for

their efforts. Used class periods efficiently and exercised clear rules to manage students’

behaviour. They were based on established customs that had been used successfully in

schools over many years. The teachers communicated the knowledge and enforced standards

of behaviour.

Progressive Modern Teaching

Today the scenario of the classroom has been changing, students are no longer being treated

as the target audience, and instead they take active participation in the classroom and

learning. Teachers allow them to speak and ask questions on what they teach. Over the years,

teaching styles and methods have been changing. Traditional way of education in which

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memorisation and recitation methods are used has been replaced by interactive methods.

Education reforms mean that learning is taught from a completely different angle.

Progressive educational practices focus on the individual student’s needs rather than

assuming all students are at the same level of understanding. The modern way of teaching is

more actively based, using questioning, explaining, demonstrating and collaboration

techniques.

One modern method is spaced learning, this is when students are encourage to quickly switch

through activities, for example, providing 10 minutes of knowledge on the subject with a

power-point presentation and then having fifteen minutes of sports. The aim of spaced

learning is to achieve better grade, and it works. It is claimed that this is more effective than

teaching students by traditional methods for four hours. Thus helping the brain cells to create

connections that they need to remember knowledge. It also helps people to relax. Teachers

have reported amazing results when it came to spaced learning. Spaced learning method is a

learning method in which the condensed learning content is repeated three times, with two

ten minutes beaks during which activities such as physical activities are performed by the

students. I think that physical Education (PE) and lessons can be combined.

Spaced learning involves encouraging students to quickly switch through activities. For

example, providing ten minutes of knowledge on the nervous system with a power point

presentation and ten having fifteen minutes of basketball would be the way to get the better

grades. The key is the brain cells. It helps them to create the connection that they need to

actually remember the knowledge. Furthermore, I have the additional benefit of allowing

people to relax. If they are compressing sections of the syllabus into such small sections then

there is no time to worry. It’s all about the learning before moving on the session of activity.

Figure of Modern and innovative teaching method

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Flexible Days

Sometimes conventional lesson blocks just do not work as every student is different and they

all have their problematic subjects. The concept of flexible days is that an in-dept. session of

a subject can be acquired by simply having a whole day of mathematics or some other

subject.

At flexible days, lessons a teacher try to help each student to study and learn what is the most

difficult for him/her personally. Somebody repeats, somebody learns. It makes it more

convenient for students as now they can focus on one-thing while in school. It means that

students do not have a breaking point by spending hours struggling with a subject alone at

home.

Teacher also find it easier as they can keep their lessons plan and simply go over them again

with a more personal touch. Flexible days, lessons are more in touch with students and gives

focused study time that can help students grasp difficult concepts. Teachers are also able to

help students by simply having fast-tract weeks. Having a whole week of mathematics or

English can help students to get through the subjects in a shorter amount of time.

It’s good news for teachers and students alike because even though a lesson lasts an hour. It

could actually lose up to 25 per cent of its designated time. There’s the preparing for class

and packing away to take into account, and students are not always the quickest t performing

these tasks.

Teachers should choose what method is more appropriate for his/her student’s spaced

learning or flexible days.

Engagement

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Under a new teaching method called ‘’engagement’’ students are urged to engage with the

real world, analyse everything that happens In different life spheres (not only) internship but

also economical business, social spheres, etc. Business studies are where this new focus of

engagement occurs.

Instead of conventional teaching methods, students were taken to visit local business where

they are able to witness how the knowledge that they were learning applied to the real world.

Multiple days were set aside for this practice and all students were required to wear business

suits in order to attend. The idea is to get students engaged and to connect their learning to

the real world. If teachers can show them how what they are teaching connects to the real

world then their own brain cells are going to connect and associate them.

The results are there for all to see because before this new method was introduced only 40 per

cent of students achieved grades of A to C across both 10 to 11 and 13 to 14. New methods of

teaching have the purpose to improve the quality of education and involve students in

educational process. Innovation means progress and development.

How is 21stcentury learner-centred learning different from conventional teacher-centred

learning

Teacher-centred Approaches Learner-centred Approaches


Content
The content is established by a curriculum, Learners study topics based on curriculum
and all learners study the same topics at the standards but are allowed numerous choices

43
same time in a topic of study
Learners have access to limited information, Learners have infinite access to unlimited
selected by the teacher or the school library information of verging degrees of quality
Topics of study are typically isolated and Learner study content in a way that shows
disconnected from each other. connection between subjects
Learners memorize facts and occasionally Learners learn concepts as well as facts and
analyse information critically. There is little frequently engage in higher level analysis,
focus on applying facts or concepts to a evaluation and synthesis of a variety of kinds
variety of real world situations. of materials. There is an emphasis on
showing how concepts apply to variety of
real world situation
Learners work to find correct answers Learners work to construct any one of a
number of possible correct answers.
Teacher chooses activities and provides Learner select from a variety of teacher
materials at the appropriate level. provided activities and often determine their
own level of challenge at which to work
Instruction The teacher is the facilitator the guide on the
The teacher is the information giver-the sage side providing opportunities for learners to
on the stage- helping, learners acquire skills apply skills and construct their own
and knowledge knowledge.
Teaching is an instructive process Teaching is a constructive process
Learners complete short, isolated activities Leaners work on activities and projects
and lessons round specific content pieces and connected to long term goals aimed at
skills building deep conceptual understanding and
proficient strategy use.
Classroom environment learners learn Classroom environment resembles an active
passively in an often silent classroom workplace with various activities and levels
of sound depending on the kind of work
being done.
Learners usually work individually Learners often collaborate with peers,
experts, community members and teachers.
Assessment Learners know ahead of time how they will
Learners take paper-and pencil exams, be assessed have input into the criteria by
silently and alone. The questions are kept which they will be assessed, receive feedback

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secret until test time, so learners have to learn from the teacher and their peers throughout a
all the material even though only part of it unit and have multiple opportunities to access
will be tested their own learning.
Teachers are primarily accountable for leaner Teacher and learners share accountability for
learning learning and achievement
Learners are extrinsically motivated by the Learner’s interest and involvement promote
desire to get good grades, to please teachers intrinsic motivation and effort.
and to gain rewards
Technology Learners use various kinds of technology to
Teachers use various kinds of technology to conduct research, communicate and create
explain, demonstrate and illustrate various knowledge.
topics
Source: https://sites. Google.com/site/darakhshaeportfolio/

Traditional techniques use repetition and memorisation of information to education to

educate students; it meant that they were not developing their critical thinking, problem

solving and decision-making skills. Modern learning encourages students to collaborate and

therefore be more productive. Lying that, traditional and modern teaching methods are both

effective and useful in today’s education. Sarah Wright, who blogs for TES, explains, ‘As

with most things, it’s all about balance’ we need to understand when a traditional method

works best and when it’s right to try new and innovative approaches.

2.1.8 Concept of Educational Technology

History has made it known that Educational technology has so many uncertainty at the

beginning, meaning that no written evidence to tell exactly who has coined the word

Educational technology. The field evolved from the Stone Age when they were writing on

cause with stones meaning they match arts with visual, to patronize age, when they develop

metal melting with copper to Iron Age. When developed knowledge of iron smelting

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technology, this age was the age before the development of scripts which brought about book

and chalk board before the industrial phase, the instructional materials were slate, chalk,

blackboard etc.

Mass communication age which is also known as industrial age brought about invent of

printing press, Audio-visual instructional materials like charts, maps, textbooks etc. during

the 20th century electronics were developed, broadband internet became popular, as things

emerge they find their way into the classroom, this makes the classroom to become one of the

rapidly growing market. Presently classroom are more like technology laboratory where

students connects to internet with their phone, laptops or perhaps being attending video-

conferencing lectures. All these was a result of evolution in educational technology by

association of educational and communication Technology (AEC) define Educational

Technology as a field of study and ethical practice of facilitating learning and improving

performance by creating, using and managing appropriate technological processes and

resources (Serhat 2019).

Meanwhile, Educational Technology as the name implies include many of the popular digital

development such as internet and virtual reality which has a different application to the part

of teaching. It enhances learning via workshop, seminar, webinar etc. there is improved

performance by helping learners apply knowledge and acquire skill. Creating instructional

tool like video, using what was created to impact knowledge, maintain a good working

system in a field by managing technological processes and resources which is what we use to

make things happen e.g. machines, data information; devices are used for educational

purposes. Education as a ladder to success has seen several trends over the years.

Educational institutes global, has taken the attention towards preparing students for the job

market. They use career-oriented approach in teaching ensuring that students fits in the

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information economy at graduation and also make the students to be aware of their role an

responsibilities as national and global citizens through role plays, videos, community services

etc. which In turn enable the students to develop their personalities by participating in the

different activities, such as fun quiz, role playing, projects and several other tools. New trend

are also introduced for assessing the performance and evaluating students level of knowledge,

computer base assessment are use in the western world which saves time and effort via

online.

In the growing trend of online learning education is made accessible to all (Dennis Duru

2007). One can prepare for any degree program from any online institution; the learners set

their own study time and duration without affecting their present commitments. This allows

students to be 1st more self-managed and focused. Online learning (program) make use of

some latest learning resources which includes video-lectures, online practice exercises etc. all

these are the new technological trend that makes learning effective and achievable meaning

that students can learn a lot more conveniently and can retain information in their long term

memory, with the help of 21st century soft skill.

A major trend in higher education is the soft skills training; the important skills in the work

place include creativity, critical thinking, people management and problem solving. In an

effort to prepare students for their carer, teachers must incorporate the 21 st century skills to

help nurture students and grow them in these skills by doing this; we now have generation of

processionals who are balance both academically and in the work force. In this regards, self-

development mind set are created in students and also classroom must leave opportunity for

self-learning teaching skill which encourages the students to be engaged in the learning

process. All these and many more such as flip classroom, blended learning, virtual education

to mention for a few are the basic trend in the western world which Nigeria as a developing

country has embrace the trend in her education system.

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Trend of Educational Technology in Nigeria

The world has evolved from traditional methods of teaching and learning to digital patterns

and every school especially in Nigeria are to adapt to such digital methodologies in order to

be productive. Nigeria as a developing country has embrace the information and

communication technology trend in their education system as a result of the global pandemic

in 020 which put all the students at home for several months. The government bought the

idea of online learning irrespective of their location. Below are the various current trends of

educational technology in Nigeria which shows new ideas, approaches, devices introduced

and their application to better education.

a) Virtual library: this is one of the products of rapid development in computer and

telecommunication technologies which is accessible from any part of the world. It was

launched in Nigeria 2002 (Aniebo 2004) many of the tertiary institution have upgraded

their library and now operating a virtual library. This library has turned many

conventional libraries to be digitalized. Virtual library especially in this dispensation is

used as a major source of information to learners, especially the online learners. It is the

use of modern ICT to collect, store, search, retrieve and disseminate information to large

number of learners irrespective of time or space. This trend has massively help Nigeria

education without doubt.

b) The internet: internet technology has made education accessible from any location of

the world via online learning. Internet simply means a network of networked computer

all over the world. Presently many organization, government agencies, learners,

institutions connect their computers to internet making it a large network of networked

computers. In this regard many growths have been recorded in educational technology.

Internet network enables the learner to connect with the computer to be able to access

any information online.

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Also though internet application in teaching and learning the demand for education for

all in Nigeria can be met. The internet usage improves the quality of learning by aiding

access to resources and services as well as remote exchange and collaboration. It is also

useful in open and distance learning. Internet has actually made Nigeria a global nation,

especially in education system we communist, learn, interact and collaborate via internet

usage.

c) Virtual Reality: This is another powerful technology that has made its way into the

classroom, it allows teachers to take their students on a journey in order to see what they

are learning, it enables students to explore the world, both past and present without

leaving their classrooms. Virtual reality is the use of computer technology to create a

stimulated environment Jole Bardi (2019). In virtual reality, students see, feel things and

that they may not be able to see in real world and teachers being the facilitator has the

ability to monitor where the students are in the journey, control the images students see,

pause trips when there is need for explanation. This is one of the digital tools that are

making waves in Nigeria currently.

d) Combining Asynchronous and Synchronous learning: this method of instruction has

been invoked in the educational system in Nigeria especially in the pandemic period.

Learners learn on their own, they log into the internet to assess learning materials already

uploaded which I called self-pace. In the other hand student can learn online with the

teacher live (Synchronous) here there are love communication collaboration between the

teacher and the student, also they use each other via online such as Skype, zoom etc. this

approach is called blended learning method. This has being adopted in Nigeria education

system where learners receives virtual instruction from the teacher and had good learning

experiences and are engaged throughout the learning process.

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e) Use of learning Management system (LMS): This system is valuable for both

educators professional development and also in the instruction. In Nigeria, teacher use

this platform for teaching and learning purposes also for accessing students’

performance. Examples of such learning management systems are Google meet, Google

classroom zoom to mention a few. Most networks, to interact with students and to builds

a community of learners. This is because learning management system has a lot of

affordance which can be used to enhance learning at any point in time. A good online

learning platform can also be combined with a learning Management system (LMS) so

you can keep track of your students learning outcomes.

f) Digital literacy: this is a fundamental skill for students in this 21 st century. Education

Technology when incorporated in the classroom helps students to improve their digital

literacy skills which know how to use technology and the internet in learning. Basically

in Nigeria, teachers mostly in private schools incorporate digital literacy in the teaching

and learning. They do it by using technology to teach and showing them how to use it

thereby enhancing learning experiences.

g) 21st century skills: This skill is the power house of Educational technology. It gives

educational technology the network in Nigeria in the sense that the schools that have

integrated these skills will produce a well creative critical thinkers and problem solvers.

h) Social Media in learning: have you ever considered using social media into your

education? Why don’t we use social media as a strong tool to boost learning given that

every student, young and old, spends so much time on i? It’s how the use of social media

for teaching came about. Many educational institutions have begun to use social media as

a communication tool for students to readily engage with one another. Students may

share study resources, have group discussion and quickly remark on other people’s posts.

Even an animated educational video could be shared on social media. And TedED is the

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typical example of this trend. This organisation creates lesson, post them on trouble

where people can easily access, find and share the educational video with their friends.

Nigeria education has taken advantage of social media in its fullness which has made

learning interactive and meaningful to learner.

Gamification

Gamification is the most appropriate educational technology trend if one is seeking a

technique to make learning more fun and engaging. Christo D and Darina D (2017). The key

sector where gamification is being actively explored is education. There is no reason why

kids should not participate actively in classroom games. Students can learn and practice while

they are joining in exciting game activities. Gaming elements help create a funny and positive

learning environment for learners.

The adoption of gamification is most popular in the k-12 education sector. It’s because kids

are quickly engaged in video gaming or getting higher scores in a game. However, it does not

mean that higher education or corporate training doesn’t need fun element to improve, the

gamification is most commonly used in the k-12 education sector. This is because children

become immediately engrossed in gaming video or in achieving greater game scores.

However, this does not negate the need for enjoyable elements in higher education or

business training.

E-Learning

Because of the rapid growth of COVID-19 and school closures, distance learning became the

number one educational technology trend in 2020 almost immediately. As a result the need

for online educational platforms has increased electronically provided education or training is

referred to as e-learning. It can be slide-based online activities or an online course.

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Online course that assist a company in training staff to acquire skills with learning

educational content is delivered to learners through computers, laptops, tablets or

smartphone. Not only saving time but opening many doors for interactive learning. Rather

than be in a passive experience, learners can choose what they need to learn quickly and

easily, wherever they are. They also learn through interacting directly with on – screen

information through for instance dragging content from one place to the next. Moreover, the

decision – making scenarios in learning also encourage learners to make their own choices on

what they will learn next.

Learners absorb knowledge through reading or viewing content in learning which alters the

way education is provided. Many learning courses now contains animation, podcasts, and

movies, resulting in a multimodal and hands – on learning experience. Video - Assisted

Learning.

In recent years, video – assisted learning has become more and more popular as classroom

displays. The “video day” is no longer a television on a television on a trolley being wheeled

into a class. With the internet and digital devises every day can be a “video day”. This trend

is also booming in distance learning conditions which students learn through computers

screens. Videos, especially animated video are extremely beneficial to enrich lessons and

make content comprehensible. It improves student’s outcomes and reduces teachers

workload.

Block chain Technology

The Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) from block chain brings so many benefits to

education, especially data storage. Khushboo Jobanputral (2018). Every time new data is

added, it adds another “block” to the system, so the storage is technically limitless.

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Simultaneously, the data will be encrypted and distributed across multiple computers in the

system. It makes transacting data decentralized and transparent.

Block chain technology is used in Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and elortfolio to

very skills and knowledge. The DLT system will answer the problems of authentication, scale

and cost for learning agencies. Moreover, it can help student applicants publish their

accomplishments during the job – seeking phase.

Smart boards

It’s been over 30 years since the smart board was invented. These digital whiteboards have

done more than just eliminate the need to dust erasers; they have also allowed the classroom

to keep up with technology advancement. Smart boards are highly interactive and engaging

for both students and teachers. They accommodate the different learning styles of students,

those who are tactile learners can physically interact with the board. Visual learners can view

videos and images. And students who engage by audio can listen to lessons. Smart boards are

a versatile tool integral to customizing learning conditions for students. Most Nigeria schools

are already moving with this trend which is now part of the system especially in high

institution. Educational Technology in Nigeria is still new and experiencing swift growth.

The current trend identified here are mode of acquiring education both online and offline.

This information will enable those who choose online learning to exploit the importance of

educational technology to benefit of educational technology cannot be over emphasized the

educational system in Nigeria are gradually embracing educational technology tools and

encouraging schools in all levels to integrate this educational technology trend to ensure

education is made available to all. Teachers and students now have a new and improved

manner of communicating during the learning process thanks to technology advancement.

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Yes, Technology has a significant influence on today’s students because they are the digital

natives which made them to solely adapt to it.

Concept of Electronic Learning (E-learning) Electronic learning may be seen as online

learning that makes use of social networking system for course delivery, learning is done

using computers with heavy use of internet in assessing relevant information. Electronic

learning is a technology learning that plays an important role in modern education and

training its great contribution lies in the fact that content is available at any place and device

from a fixed device to a mobile device. The electronic learning platform is common

nowadays, when it comes, some users are even using social media in education as a tool

when it comes to online learning in education, the model has been straightforward. Up until

the early 2000s education was in a classroom of student with a teacher who led the process.

Physical presence was a no-brainer, and any other type of learning was questionable at best.

Then the internet happened, and the rest was history.

The term electronic learning(E-learning) may be defined as a learning system based on

formalized teaching but with the help of electronic resources. While teaching can be based on

or out of the classrooms, the use of computers and the internet forms the major component of

E-learning. E-learning is also seen as a network enable transfer of skills and knowledge, and

the delivery of education is made to a large number of recipients at the same or different

times. Earlier, it was not accepted wholeheartedly as it was assumes that this system lacked

the human element required in learning.

However, with the rapid progress in technology and the advancement in learning systems, it

is now embraced by the masses. The introduction of computers was the basis of this evolution

and with the passage of time, we are hooked to smartphones, tablets etc. these device now

have an important place in the classroom for learning. Books are gradually getting replaced

54
by electronic education materials like optical discs or pen drives. Knowledge can also be

shared through the internet, which is accessible anywhere and anytime.

E-learning has proved to be the suitable means in the corporate sector, especially when

training programs are conducted for professionals across the globe and employees are able to

acquire important skills while sitting in a board room or by having seminars, which are

conducted for employees of the same or different organization under one roof. The schools

which E-learning technologies are a step ahead of those which still use tradition approach

towards learning.

No doubt, it is equally important to take forward the concept of non-electronic teaching with

the help of books and lectures, but the importance and effectiveness of technology. Based

learning cannot be over-emphasized.

It is believed that the human brain can easily remember and relate through moving picture or

videos. It has also been found that visuals, apart from holding the attention of students are

also retained by the brain for longer-periods, various sectors, including agriculture, medicine,

education, service, businesses, and government setups are adapting to the concept of E-

learning which help in the development of a nation.

The term e- learning has only been in existence since 1999, when the word was first utilized

at a computer based training (CBT) systems seminal.

Other words also began to spring up in search of an accurate description such as “online

learning” and “virtual learning”. However, the principles behind e- learning have been well

documented throughout history, and there is even evidence that suggests that early forms of

e- learning was in existence way back the 19th century long before the internet was launched,

distant courses were being offered to provide students with education on specific subjects and

55
skills . In the 1840’s Isaac pitman taught his pupils shorthand via correspondence. This form

of symbolic writing was designed to improve writing speed and was popular among

secretaries, journalists and other individuals who did much of note taking or writing. Pitman

who was a qualified teacher, would then send his students more work to be finished using the

same system,

In 1924, the first testing machine was invented. This device allowed student to test

themselves. Then in 1954, bf skinner, a Harvard Professor invented the “teaching machine”

which enabled schools to administer programmed instruction to their student. It was in 1960

however that the first computer – based training program was introduced to the world. This

computer – based training program (CBT program) was known as PLATO – programmed

logic for Automated Teaching operations. It was originally designed for students attending

the University of Illinois, but ended up being used in schools throughout the area. The first

online learning system were only setup to deliver information to students but as we entered

the 70’s online learning started to become more interactive.

In Britain the Open University was keep to take advantage of e –learning. Their system of

education has always been primarily focused on learning at a distant in the past, course

materials were delivered by post and correspondence with tutors was via mail with the

internet the Open University began to offer a wider range of interactive educational

experiences as well as faster correspondence with students via email etc.

With the introduction of the computer and internet in the late 20 th century e – learning tools

and delivery methods expanded. The first MAC in the 1980’s enabled individual to have

computers in their homes, making it easier for them learn about particular subject and

develop certain skill sets. In the following decade, virtual learning environments began to

truly thrive, with people gaining access to a wealth of online information and e – learning

56
opportune by the early 90’s several schools had been set up that delivered courses online

only, making the most of the internet and bringing education to peoples who wouldn’t

previously have been able to attend a collage due to geographical or time constraints.

Technological advancements also helped educational establishment reduce the cost of

distance learning, a saving that would also be passed on to the students and helping bring

education to the wider audience.

In the 2000’s, business began using e – learning to train their employees. New and

experienced workers alike now had the opportunity to improve upon their industry

knowledge base and expand their skill sets. At home individual were granted access to

programs that offered them the ability to earn online degrees and enrich their lives through

expanded knowledge.

E – Learning is the buzzword in modern times which has a given a new shape to the

traditional classroom learning. Cloud computing forms the base for this e – learning

techniques where in teacher as well as students can collaborate from their comfort zone and

experience learning in a creative way.

With e – learning techniques, the learners are encouraged to get knowledge at their own pace

and space.

Virtual Learning Environment (VLE’s) following the emergence of the internet in the early

1990’s, many new tools and product have been developed to exploit its benefits fully. Since

the mid – 1990’s the education community software products labeled Virtual Learning

Environments (VLEs) have appeared with the aim of supporting learning and teaching

activities across the internet the joint information systems committee managed learning

environment steering group has said that virtual learning environments refers to “the

57
components, in which learners and tutors participate in online” interactions of various kinds,

including online learning.

The internet offers such potential benefits as flexible access and new ways of communicating

and assessing for students and lecturers. However, for the lecturer, creating internet resources

that are stimulating, appealing, easy to use and educationally sound is time consuming and

requires considerable expertise. A virtual classroom is an online classroom that allows

participant to communicate with one another view presentations or videos, interact with

resources in work groups. The virtual classroom, a synchronous from of e – learning while

trying to cut time and costs associated with face to face instructor – led training (xanthoula

2015). Virtual learning environments allow lecturers to create resources quickly and without

the need to develop technical skills Typically web – based, virtual learning environments

such as Google classroom provides an integrated set of internet tools, enable easy upload of

materials and offer a consistent look and feel that can be customizing by the user.

Features of Virtual Learning Environments

The tools and features that comprise a virtual environment typically include the following:

 Communication between tutors and students: such as email, discussion board and virtual

chat facilities which support various types of communication: Synchronous and

asynchronous, one to one, one to many and many to many.

 Self – assessment and summative assessment: eg multiple – choice assessment with

automated marking and immediate feedback.

 Delivered of learning resources and material: eg through the provision of lecture notes

supporting materials, images and video clips, links to other wed resources. Online

discussion and assessment activities.

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 Shared work group areas: allows designated groups of students to upload and share files

as well as communicating with each other.

 Support for students: could take the form of communication with tutors or other students,

provision of supporting materials such a course information and Frequently Asked

Question (FAQs)

 Management and tracking of students; eg usernames and passwords to ensure that only

registered students can access the course; analysis of assessment undertaken by students

or their use of materials within the virtual learning environment.

 Student tools: eg individual student webpages ‘drop boxes’ for the upload of course

work, electronic diaries and calenders. Consistent and customizable look and feel a

standard user interface that is easy for students to understand and use. Courses can be

individualized with colours, graphics and logos, but the essential mode of use remain

constant.

 Navigation structure: structured delivery of information supported by a standard

navigation toolbar. Most virtual learning environment software assumes that students

will work their way through linear sequences of instructional material. Others are more

flexible and will accommodate alternative information structures eg multi – path case

studies.

Internet

Internet is a system architecture that has revolutionized communications and methods of

commerce by allowing various computer network around the world to inter connect.

Sometimes referred to as a “\network” of nation tech target (2022) the internet emerged in

the 1970’s but did not become visible to the general public until the early 1990’s by 2022,

approximately 4.5 people or more than half of the world’s population were estimated to have

access to the internet.

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The internet provides a ability so powerful and general that it can be used for almost any

purpose that depends on information, and it is accessible by every individual who connect to

one of its constituent networks. It support human community via social media electronic mail

(email) “chat rooms” newsgroups and audio and video trends mission and allows people to

work collaboratively at many different locations. It support access to digital information by

many applications, including the world wide web. The internet has proved to be a spawning

ground for a large and growing number of “e – business” (including subsidiaries of traditional

“brick – and mortar companies”) that carry out most of their sales and services over the

internet.

Education

Here the internet has a variety of effects some of which are quite disturbing. There are more

computers in the classroom than ever before, but is scant evidence that they enhance the

learning of basic skills in reading, writing and arithmetic. While access to vast amount of

digital information is convenient, it has also becomes apparent that most students now see

libraries as antiquated institutions better used for their computer terminals than their book

collections. As teachers at all education levels can attest, students typically prefer to research

their papers by reading online rather than wandering through a library’s stacks.

In a related effect the internet has brought plagiarism into the computer era in two distinct

senses. First, electronic texts have made it simple for students to “cut and paste” published

sources (eg encyclopedia articles) into their own papers. Second, although students could

always get someone to write their papers for them, it is now mush easier to find and purchase

anonymous papers against a vast archive of sources. Even a simple online search can

sometimes find where one particularly well – turned phrase originally appeared.

The Uses and Roles of the Internet in Education

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Education that is Both Cost – Effective and Affordable: The high expense of education is one of

the most significant impediments to learning the internet increases education quality, which is

one of the pillars of a nation’s long term development. Educational films on YouTube are a

good example.

Increases Interactions Between Teachers and Students: With the help of social media,

messaging applications and chat forums, students may maintain continual contact with their

teachers or other classmates via the internet. Parents can speak with instructors and school

officials about their children’s academic performance. Students can learn new things and

broaden their knowledge by interacting with like – minded people on forums.

Tool for Effective Teaching and Learning: The internet has evolved into a critical tool for

effective teaching and learning and learning Teachers can employ animation, power point

slides, and graphics to catch the interest of their pupils.

 Digital Media interaction is a term used to describe how people interact with digital

media.

 Digital bulletin boards save paper and allow for the presentation of films and audios to

draw students attention.

The Most Recent Information: For every subject, there is vast amount of knowledge available.

It keeps us informed about the most recent developments in the field in which we are

interested.

Multimedia as a Tool for Learning: It aids pupils in their learning process by simplifying their

knowledge. It also aids in visualizing what is being taught in school by the teachers.

Advantages of Internet

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1. Access to immediate information: we can access a large amount of information from

an immense number of sources. Through different search engines in a simple and

essentially immediate way to any information in a matter of seconds. Digital world 839

(2022) this case of the internet makes the evergreen benefits of the presence of the

internet in our lives.

The internet allows access to content on various topics through the search engine. Either

to peruse some news that interests us or highly specialized topics such as scientific,

humorous, cultural, latest advances in technology e.t.c, that we can access in any

language or any device and from anywhere in the world.

This broadens the available options and makes users have considerably more freedom to

choose what interest them as well as seeking help from the internet in solving any

questions finding answer.

2. Excellent Form of Communication: Diagram of social media another of the main and best –

known advantages of the internet is that it allows us to contact people from everywhere

on the planet. Regardless of the distance either at a remote place or broad, as long as they

have access to the computer – network, Mussa Chirasa (2018). It positively expands the

communication possibilities with people who are related to us both personally and

professionally. Since it allows us to maintain relationship with them through social

networks, chat, and forum. This makes it easier for people who like abroad to keep in

touch with their children and friends. It positively increases communication with people,

which has gone from traditional mail to email, or form telegrams to real – time video calls. This

better approach for interfacing significantly affects day to day and organization on internet?

 Whatsapp, Telegram, Facebook messager for personal chatting

 Google, Duo, Zoom meetings, Skype for video calling, and Business Meetings.

 Linkedin, Instagram for Business Promotions, and Branching

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 Discord for communication between cameras.

 Quora, Reddit for Discussing on various matters.

 Blogger and medium for Blogging.

 Flicker, Pinterest for photo sharing etc. Although the speed of the internet depends

on technical factors inherent to the levels of technological development of each

country, actually the speed with which we can get information has progressively

increased over the long run.

3. Dissemination of Own Content: One can create and share their own content on the

internet. With the development of the web during the 1990’s, the possibility of producing

and communicating changes gave users the power to create and disseminate their

content. From the first blogging platform called Blogger to YouTube chan nels and now

Youtube shorts, TikTok to Instagram, reels the internet helped users abandon the role of

passive receivers to become senders and receivers of messages, simultaneously. All

information can be spread rapidly accordingly allowing social and educational awareness

raising campaigns to be carried out on the internet among others via social platforms like

Twitter and Facebook.

4. Massification of knowledge: Perhaps the main benefits of the internet have to do with

the way that it permits access to mass knowledge and learning without any geographical

limits and space barriers. Any person who just needs a computer or mobile phone with the

internet connection can learn about multiple topics, learning new skills or improving the ones

they as of now have no matter where they are. You can say that internet is a virtual treasury of

knowledge. With the internet, it is possible to learn or teach remotely have access to remote

libraries, tutorials, manuals, technical or scientific reports etc. These advantages of internet

have been as a tool that is now indispensable in educational processes, particularly in places

with difficult geographic access.

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This is particularly important for students who can use this vast information for their projects as

well as to discover some new information about the subject in which they are interested. Either

you are a student, educators, or older person, now you don’t need to wait or buy an

encyclopedia or to go to book shops and in search of the information you need. You simply

need to search on the web and you are free to learn on any subject or topic, no matter how

strange and rare what are best sites on internet for mass knowledge.

 Wikipedia, encyclopedia Britannica

 Google books, Archive .org, Open Library

 YouTube, Ted Talks – Educational and Motivational videos.

 Khan Academy, Stanford online, TED – ED

 Linkedin Learning, Udemy, Skill share, Coursera

 Google Meet, Zoom meeting, Google classroom

 Quora, Brainly – for Asking Question and Doubts these platforms have been

committed to granting knowledge to people of all ages. What’s more, learning

perspectives of understanding, thinking, and living life with respect to practically

any possible subject. It allows us to make our cultural barriers more flexible and

figure out how to knowledge various visions beyond our own.

5. Freedom of Expression: In spite of the way that depending on the country and the

policies that exist in such a manner, there will be more or fewer troubles. An example of

this can be seen in the cases of countries and regions that live under dictatorships and

extremist political system.

The internet is frequently a space in which altogether different individuals can see and express

issue, at a practical level anonymous in the event that you are known – how.

It is the internet that sets the stage for many undertaking, users discover thoughts for

inspiration online, make special groups in which they support and criticize each other affairs.

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Obviously, you can discover a hobby in everyday life yet the internet gives more freedom and

opportunities.

The pros and cons of the internet should be considered in view of an individual’s lifestyle and

personality. Some think it’s simpler to communicate online by expressing their own thoughts

while others may not.

The World Wide Web offers endless possibilities. So, you can easily find like minds people,

advertise yourself or a company, learn, something new or just spending time on the interest.

6. Creation of new Jobs: since the internet has eliminated barriers and space, it has

additionally altered the manner in which we work. Advances in internet technology

expand the possibilities of training and specialization, as making the job market growth

in general terms.

It not only allows us to be in contact with our companions yet, to search and request job offers

through the communities and portals that exist for it. As we all know there are chats, search

engines and social networks that help us find jobs.

What are the jobs that are available on internet?

 Data analysis

 Online Tutoring

 Virtual Assistant

 SEO,

 Digital Marketing

 Programming

 Translation Jobs,

 Freelancing

 E – commerce

 Web and Graphic Designing. Etc.

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Moreover, with the arrival of the internet new jobs that recently didn’t exist identified with

the virtual world and the internet have been created. A clear example we have in platforms

such as Amazon, e Bay, Ali Baba, Companies dedicated to selling and buying online.

In these scenarios, it has been necessary to train in content that didn’t exist before so that

people can carry out these new jobs related technologies.

7. Allows Collaboration: The internet not only allows access to information or

communication but also offers a place in which different people around the world can

team up and collaborate, who are inspired to achieve a certain objectives.

What are the benefits of collaboration on the internet.

 Creation and accomplishment of the projects

 Business Promotion

 Campaigns for awareness

 Crowd funding

 Branding

 Training and motivation.

8. Process Simplification: The process of the internet with business increases efficiency by

providing better manager and organization of our time and activities both planning and

looking for information as well as carrying out procedures and procedures is accelerated.

The interest has contributed substantially to improve everyday administrative processes that

occur in companies and departments that have an impact on the quality of life and social

development.

9. Business Promotion: The internet has made its way into the house. That is why through the

internet you can take your business for ahead. Before the advent of the internet, we could

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promote our business via traditional marketing such as a newspaper, TV ads, radio, and banner.

Etc.

The conventional business strategies were restricted up to certain areas. Yet, the internet

marketing, one can promote their goods and services and increment efficiency and growth

simply by using various online tools and tactics. The internet has being entirely beneficial in the

field of business, through the internet makers and dealers have come close. With this, the

maker of one nation can offer his items to the vendors of another country easily.

It is easy to set up online business

 Cost savings

 Various Source of marketing

 Wide opportunity for potential customers

 Increased professionalism

 Access to Global Market.

 Time Saving & more Flexibility than conventional Business

The Internet and vital computer application for business have proved to be very

beneficial in the field of commerce and marketing. Through the internet one country

easily.

10. Ease of shopping & Banking: On the internet, you are able to carry out all our financial

transaction and numerous services. Internet – based business sites like Amazon, Ali

express, Flipchart, and Wal-Mart, provide online shopping facilities with a wide range

of items to search and buy, which is convenient as well as saves time and energy.

Online transactions these days have become the norm in almost all types of business. E

– Commerce with its enormous reach for various products and services make it possible

to deliver the customer order to his doorstep. Sites such as eBay allow customers to bid,

buy, sell and even conduct online questions. Online shopping has also become an

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immense achievement and is considered a progressive advantage of internet. Whatever

people are looking for, it very well may be found on the internet without leaving their

homes only a single tick on the things that you want to buy and you would receive by

mail.

Also, one should ensure network security importantly in order to make secure transaction.

Which services available on the internet

 Utility Bills paying services

 Booking Tickets for Travelling and movies

 Purchasing Household Appliances and furniture’s.

 Renting Vehicles and Houses

 Net Banking

 Vouchers and Gift cards

 Legal and Gift cards

11. Offers new forms of Entertainment with the arrival of the internet in our lives, another

way of spending time and energy and entertaining ourselves was born, either alone or in

the company of other. Just by having access to it from TV, radio and the written press,

we have move to streaming content, podcasts, Virtual Reality and Digital News, the

transmission of which is possible due to the evolution of the internet, we can discover

endless entertainment and platforms both free and paid to have great fun in our free time.

Although these formats are created on the web, they rely on the internet to be shared.

Entertainment is another popular behind why people use the internet. Chat rooms are famous

because users can meet interesting people.

There are various games and fun applications that can be downloaded free of charge. The

internet is used by people to find their perfect mate. When people surf the web, there are

numerous things that can be found, music, hobbies, new and so on.

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12. Reduced the Dependency: The presence of internet and social media has inferred that

now it isn’t at this point important to do systems in person than beforehand would

include enormous speculation of time and the need to move remain in that place. This

grants us to upgrade our time and use it to do different things. Consequently to meet to

talk about an issue stay in long lines to hold tickets, make a salutation, or document a

protest or guarantee. Believe it or not, it furthermore allows work from home or the

presence of faraway academic planning with some comfort.

Disadvantages of Internet

Although the internet has various benefits and is one of the most powerful creations, it also contains

many disadvantages. Below is given a list of the complete disadvantages of the internet.

Diagram of disadvantages of Internet:

Source: www.myayan.com

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1. Addition, time – waster and causes distractions: if any person is spending much time on

the internet connected devices, he can be addicted to the internet. An internet addictive

person can lead to spending his precious time on internet, rather than doing something

productive. Anyone who is addicted to surf the internet can hamper workplaces

productivity as well.

2. Bulling, trolls, stackers, and crime: A person who uses the internet frequently can face

abusive or trolls people. Another issue cyber bulling is also increasing rapidly over the

years sometimes you can be tracked on the internet by hackers or unauthorized persons;

they can be harmful to you by stealing your personal information.

3. Spam and Advertising: the internet is the best place to advertise any services or products

as compared to traditional advertising method (e.g TV, newspaper and radio). But you

might see more spam in your inbox than junk mail in real life because digital advertising

can be sent on a massive scale.

4. Pornographic and Violent images: In modern times, there is a huge amount of content

available on the internet. There are various sources that contain a large amount of data

such as Wikipedia, and some sites are also available that have less desirable content.

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Accordingly users can see pornographic or violent images that they may not want to see

while using sites.

Different tools available on the internet furthermore, if children are allowed to use the

internet, they can be addicted to it, which is also very dangerous.

5. Viruses/Malwares: The frequently use of the internet may infect your system from

viruses that can damage your valuable data, which is difficult to recover. These viruses

enter into the system through USB, CIDs, and the internet. Also because of viruses, your

system can become totally worthless. Java T - point (2021).

Concept of Entertainment: Edutainment is a concept that highly encourages, utilizes and

relies on educational technology. It emphasizes on the usage of computer and smart gargets

to impact education. Edutainment is a portmanteau of the word “education” and

“edutainment” or a blend of education and entertainment, implemented in educational

institutions to make teaching and learning end up being fun. Below shows how technology

have change the game of learning diagram of edutainment in the classroom

Sources: Joseph Lathen (2020) edutainment in the classroom edutainment refers to

technologies and software products that combine education with entertainment in some way it

is used to describe various forms V of entertainment that also educate. Edutainment intends

to teach education and encourage social collaboration among students and educator’s by

integrating academics with modern entertainment, devices and platforms such as television,

radio, pc and computer games, films, music, interactive learning sites for education such as

Learning Meaning System (LMS) websites, mobile applications, virtual reality and

multimedia.

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Many edutainment tools may make use delightful mascots or characters, either digital or in

real life films, in order to sell the entertainment value of the product. These digital age, many

of these products and technologies seek to make education more attractive to young people

and students. They also promote educators to design learning activities ideas and

management strategies that propel children to enhance their mental and physical development

in a way that is both amusing, entertaining and interesting. Edutainment education upgrade’s

classroom to smart classrooms by opening doors to better management, teaching and learning

methods at school by bringing in simulations, computer games, visual video, pictures and

audio recordings much of what edutainment can offer through audio and video are accessible

over the interest on such platform as YouTube.

Edutainment is mainly used by academia co - operations, governments and other entities to

disseminate information in classroom and or via television, computers, museum exhibits and

other media influence viewer opinions and behaviors or attract and maintain and audience.

The following are benefits of edutainment.

1. Encourage personalized learning

2. Enhances creativity and visualization

3. Transforms conventional classrooms to smart classroom.

4. Promotes portable and game based learning as well as hand – on and experimental

learning.

5. Improves interactive and collaborative teaching and learning methods.

6. It provides the digital culture in schools colleges, universities and other educational

organizations

7. It provides independent learning platforms for students.

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8. Provides technological tools for educator create engaging, interesting and entertaining

classroom activities.

9. Influences viewer’s opinions and behaviors

Concept of Computer Simulation

The work simulation means to imitate. The simulation technique was first used in the teacher

training and social science and later was spread to other subjects mainly science subjects. A

simulation uses a mathematical description or model of a real system in the form of a

computer program. Computer simulation can be seen as the use of a computer to represent the

dynamic responses of one system by the behavior of another system modeled after it, Erik el

(2021). The researcher defines computer simulation as using a computer is a lesson to imitate

the behavior of a system. Meanwhile the real behavior of a system is visualized for the lesson

to be well understood by the learner. Computer simulations are primarily used to facilitate

and enhance learning: hence it simplifies different, concepts, aids and promotes learning.

Below show the pictures of a simulated model. Diagram of a computer simulation models

source: computer simulation: Wikipedia - en. Wikipedia. Org diagram of a computer

simulation system source: computer simulation: Encyclopedia Britannica.

There is not one universal definition for simulation. Nevertheless, all definitions follow the

same general concept: simulation is an imitation involves the construction of an artificial

history with the real system features this allows a better understanding of the system

including how it works, behave and evolves over time. The training context, a computer

simulation is a technique used to help people to learn how to use a piece of computer

software or how to deal with a real – life situation by putting them in a computer – based

training environment that imitates a live system or a real – life scenario, simulation can be

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seen as a realistic re – enactment of real – world scenarios for various reasons, including

entertainment, education, preparing for an anticipated event, or troubleshooting a problem.

They are typically conducted in a controlled environment that allows for modifications or

adjusting of variables as needed. Simulations cannot account for every variable.

Simulation analysts may experiment the system by changing the real system itself in spite of

simulation, but studying the real system with this approach is not always possible, usually is

more expensive and more disruptive to create a system model, first the analyst needs to

understand the system behavior and identified it’s boundaries. One important feature of

computer simulation in education is that it must be tied to curriculum; this implies that the

computer simulation must have connection to domain of knowledge, Real – World Benefits

of Computer Simulation Learning The uses of computer simulation can activate multiple

skills in learner, Mohamed (2021) it allows learners to explicitly develop net cognition and

allows them to reflect on their learning improve motivation and interest in the class and to

present itself as an effective prediction tool. One method has shown that non – verbal

representations (images, animations, graphics, and digital data). By allowing the learner to

choose the representations he/she prefers, this allows him to individualize learning, increase

his motivation and follow in the footsteps of learners throughout their learning.

Achievement of Problem – Solving Skills of Learners

In Contemporary education the goal of Teachers is no longer to impart the content knowledge

in students rather there is a paradigm skill that encourages the development of problem.

Solving skills in students which is also beneficial to them even when they are out of school.

During computer simulation, the learner can recall problem rules of the simulations and be

able to think critically towards finding solution enhances problem – solving skills by bringing

the content to the learner as in the real – world, making them to engage cognitively in the

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application of knowledge, it helps to master skill and encourage further knowledge

acquisition.

Computer Simulation in Biology Teaching

The advent of technology has increasingly changed the conventional roles and activities in

the Biology classroom. Technology can be used to create an enabling environment for

learners, which facilitates accusation and learning of Biology (Ango 2022, in Alakwe et al

2019), teachers are in position to utilize these technologies in the classroom, such as

computers, laptops, interactive whiteboards, projectors etc to enhance learning. In process of

finding out how these resources are used you are invariably using computer simulation since

the scientists usually make use of these tools in their daily work. The use of classroom has

been reported by many researchers with positive findings, it show that computer simulation

helps students to build their understanding of topics in Biology Effective use of computer

simulation in a science classroom is worthwhile for several reasons, simulations offer

students opportunities to explore physical or biological situations that may be impossible or

too expensive or difficult to accomplish with actual laboratory or real – life experiences.

Simulation can also be offering Biology students the opportunity to explore a wide range of

variables more rapidly. Computer simulation enhances the process of respiration, thereby

making it more meaningful and interactive for learners to explore, observe and identify the

relationship between the component of aerobic and anaerobic respiration to learn about them

and how to control them.

The Use of Simulation in Teaching

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Respiration allows learners to explore the actual movement of cell and then obtain results

from various movement and these results provide feedback to their thinking and learning

process. Simulation provides an opportunity to apply the scientific method with rich and

veritable learning environment in which they can master skills and content, develop

understanding of concepts, inquire, and explore various cause and effect relationship.

The Concepts of Computer Simulation Video

Video can be seen as an instructional medium that brings about a much greater amount of

interest and motivation than the conventional printed material.

Video is an electronic medium which can be used for recording, coping, play back, and

display moving visual media learners, with the use of text each student has the choice to

watch, listen or read each presentation. Video is one of the visual aids that engage students in

the process of delivery educational content more effectively. Computer simulation video can

be refer to the display technique which allow students to visualize output from the computer.

Benefits of Computer Simulation Video

Educational video greatly benefits and enhances the learning process as interactive effects are

used to reinforce the topic being studied learning with computer simulation video happens to

be a great way off teaching and learning as it’s helps to increase learner’s interest especially

in a science subjects such as Biology.

Use of computer simulation video is a major and effective way to overcome the problems of

abstractness in teaching and learning, since students have different learning styles and their

own preferred ways of processing information when they are forced to learn using, only

lecture method so many students will fail to achieve what is expected of them.

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Gender and use of Computer: Gender is a category of human beings which is male or

female. Gender relations are the way a culture defines identifies, rights and responsibilities of

men women in relation to each other. The researcher defines gender as differences between

male and female pertaining to their features characteristics. Gender is an important

extraneous variable which sometime affects the academic performance of secondary school

students. Gender equality is the main objective a teacher achieves using simulation system

and collaborative strategies because of their characterisics feature this strategies can

encourage active participation among male and female students in learning with simulation

and in brainstorming in groups for knowledge.

Concepts of Collaborative Learning

Educators have long used collaborative learning approaches in teaching and assessing

students. Educators and policy makers have identified the ability to collaborate as an

important outcome. Collaborative learning becomes a focus of research in education during

the past decade and even in the present days. Collaborative learning refers to an instructional

method in which students at various performance level work together in small groups towards

a common goal Nesto, D. Rosel. (2016). Collaborative learning is umbrella for a variety of

educational strategies and approaches involving joint efforts by both teachers and learners.

Collaborative learning is helpful in project work, research projects and other types of team –

based activities collaborative learning is an instructional strategy that established a

relationship among learners and promotes positive interdependence among the grouped

learners. Below shows the typical model of collaboration

Diagram showing a collaborative learning model

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Source: Robert ward (2018)

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Concepts of Collaboration

Collaboration is a coordinated, synchronous activity that is the result of a continued attempt

to construct and maintain a shared conception of a problem, “collaborative learning”

emphasize the active participation of learners and this bring to mind the chinese proverb “Tell

me and I forget, show me and I will remember, involve me and I will understand”.

Collaborative learning creates an environment where the teacher involves students in doings

and thinking about the things they are doing and reaches students who otherwise might not be

engaged. Collaborative learning encourages active student participation in the learning or

small group learning. In collaborative classrooms, where every student learns from everyone

else, no student is deprived of the opportunity for making contributions and appreciating the

contributions of others. (Stephen S. (2029), stated that collaborative classrooms have the

following four general characteristics.

1. Sharing knowledge: Teacher have vital knowledge about the course content, skill, and

instructions and provide that information to students. In collaborative classroom the

teacher also builds upon the knowledge, personal experiences, language, strategies and

cultural that students bring to the learning situation

2. Sharing Ability: Collaborative classroom the teacher encourages students on the use of

their own knowledge, ensures that students share their knowledge, expertise and their

learning strategies treat each other respectively and focus on high levels of understanding

3. Mediation: collaborative classroom teacher’s act as mediators to adjust the level of

information since successful mediations helps students connect new information to their

experiences and to learning in other areas, helps student discover what to do when they

are stumped and helps them learn how to learn.

4. Heterogeneity: In a collaborative classroom, heterogeneous groupings of students enrich

learning in the classroom since the perspectives, experiences and backgrounds of all

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students are important for enriching learning in the classroom. The first two

characteristics capture the nature of relationships between the teacher and the students in

a collaborative classroom. The third characterizes teachers “approaches to instruction”

the fourth addresses all the above characteristics of collaborative learning.

Principles of Collaborative Learning is based upon the following

1. Working together results in a greater understanding than what would likely have

occurred if one had worked independently.

2. Spoken and written interactions contribute to this increased understanding.

3. Opportunity exists to become aware, through classroom experiences, of relationship

between social interactions and increased understanding.

4. Some elements of this increased understanding are idiosyncratic and unpredictable.

5. Participation is voluntary and must be freely entered into the idea behind collaborative

learning is that there is mutual benefits so that all group members gain from each other’s

efforts, recognizing that all group members share a common fate, feeling and sharing of

ideas and performance. Although, according to Barbara and Jean (2013), collaborative

learning is an umbrella term of educational approaches which involves joint intellectual

effort by students or students and teachers together, where students will work in groups

of two or more, mutually searching for understanding, solutions, or meanings or creating

a product. Alderman (2000), stated that there are three conditions for collaborative

learning which include the following

a. That knowledge is created through interaction and not transferred from educators to a

student.

b. Learning is students – centered with consideration given to the student “Levels of

knowledge – experience and understand.

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c. The educator’s role is that of facilitator of learning, developer of the learning space so

that students can take control on their own learning.

Essential Characteristics of Collaborative Learning

Ranjani (2013) stated these five essential elements, which include the follows:

1. Positive interdependence

2. Individual accountability

3. Face – To – Face promotive interaction.

4. Small Grouped skills

5. Group processing

a. Positive interdependence in this element of collaborative learning, students perceive

that they need each other to complete the group’s task (“sink or swim together”).

Teachers may structure positive interdependence by establishing mutual goals (learn and

make sure all other group member learn), joints rewards (if all group members achieve

the above criteria, each will receive bonus points), shared resources (one paper for each

group or each member receives part of the information) and assigned roles (summarize

and encourage of participation, records, time keeping) while the second elements is

b. Individual Accountability: Each student’s performance is frequently assessed and the

results are given to thee groups and the individual, teachers may structure individual

accountability by giving an individual test to each student or randomly selecting one

member of the group to give the answer. The third elements of this learning strategy.

c. Face – To – Face Promotive interaction: In these items of collaborative learning the

students promote each other’s learning by helping, sharing and encouraging efforts to

learn. Students explain, discuss and teach what they know to classmates. Teachers

structure the groups so that students sit knee to knee and talk through each aspect of the

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assignment. Also the forth element of this learning strategy as stated by Ranjani (2013)

in Umar/SHAQ (2021)

d. Small group skill: Students must not only engage in academic learning but social

learning during collaborative tasks. It is unredistic to expect all members of a groups, at

any age or in any context, to come to group tasks fully equipped with social skills

necessary for collaborative. Addressing this as part of science education would better

prepare scientists, engineers and health care professionals for the complex social

dynamics of our laboratories and clinics instructors can aid students in developing these

skills by defining and expecting collaborative behaviors. Some of the skills of

collaborative learning include actively listening to all members of the group. Actively

encouraging all members of the group verbally participate in discussion, being ethical yet

supportive of alternative views, maintaining opinions until convincing contrary evidence

is provided, and learning how to ask clarifying questions of others.

e. Group Processing: Groups need specific time to discuss how well they are achieving

their goals and maintaining effective working relationships among members. Teachers

structure group processing by assigning such tasks are;

i. List at least three member actions which helped the grouped to be successful

ii. List one action that could be added to make the group more successful.

Types of collaborative learning strategies

1. Think – Pair – share: Is one of the most common types of collaborating learning. It is a

Low – effort, low – stakes strategy for abbreviated collaboration and active learning.

Learners are required to work dependently, share their ideals with other consider peer

responses, and ultimately engage in discussions in a manner that starts to synthesize an

exchange. The above requires that learners act rather than listening passively and this

explains why teachers would often call an individual at random to share their ideas.

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2. Informal collaborative learning groups: Another type of collaborative learning that is

based on how learners are organized in a learning environment is the informal learning

groups. As the name suggests, the case where a class is broken down into small

fragments and assigned a group project to handle. These lecture and fundamentally

improve the amount of materials retained by students.

3. Formal collaborative learning groups: These types of learning are based on how learners

organize themselves in a learning environment and it forms the greatest routine practices

of collaborative learning. Formal learning groups, learners are assembled into specific

groups and they are required to stay together for many weeks or months working on an

extensive project. This type of collaborative learning is where students study and apply

comfortably the various approaches of working together.

4. Problem – based Learning: Is another type of collaboration learning where a particular

problem is introduced for learners to solve, often in groups, over a given period. It is

required that students ultimately understand the problem at hand before proposing a

solution or response. Problem – based learning starts to approximate the kind of work

students do as well as the way they need to approach the problem in their daily lives

5. Collaborative base groups: collaborative base organizations are stable, long – term

groups that have been formed to last for at least a year. The teams are made up of

learners with distinct attitude and perspective. The type of collaborative learning

provides as platform where students support each other in matters related to academics

and other spheres of life.

6. Jigsaw collaborative learning: Jigsaw technique is a cooperative learning strategy that

enables each student of a group to specialize in one aspect of a topic. To utilize the

jigsaw technique, ask each students to learn just a piece of the material, then teach it to

the group. The group then works together to synthesize the information and create a

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presentation about what they have learned. The Jigsaw technique works best with small

group (five or six students) and complex topics. Divide the lesson or required reading

into five or six separate sections. Each student is responsible for researching one part.

The above learning type makes use of jigsaw strategies to breakdown learning problem

into small parts to be handled by several groups within a given learning environment.

The Benefits of Collaborative learning students learn valuable life skills through

collaborative learning developing a wide range of skills.

When a group is present a task or an idea, there will often be a process of clarification,

discussion and evaluation of ideas. There have been numerous academics, social and

psychological benefits that have been described for collaborative learning.

Listening and Learning from Peers: Learning to listen to what others have to say is a vital

skill, it enables the share of knowledge and ideas more readily and individuals learn to

understand more about what other are thinking.

Promotion of Critical Thinking: Students are more actively involved in the learning process

during the collaborative student – centered approach, as they work together to solve problems

and tasks in turn promoting their critical thinking skill where as in the traditional setting,

individual students passively absorb knowledge passed to them from their leader.

Taking Turns: Learning to wait your turn whilst being assertive enough to make your voice

heard is a useful ability, developing this skill is easier in a small group rather than the whole

room.

Cooperation and sharing: learning to work in a group and share ideas is a great strength,

one which begins at a young age and is carried through into adult a and the work place. Lev

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Vygotsky’s social development theory suggests that community and collaboration play a

central role in the learning process as well as social interaction and behavior.

Sharing ideas however is not easy for everyone, especially when there is the complex

interplay of different personality types – sky, extrovert, chatty, or unwillingness to speak in

front of the group or individuals with stronger personalities.

Supporting other Member of the Group Working done can lead to increased stress and a

sense of isolation and vulnerability by engaging in group work all members of the group have

a sense of shared responsibility and benefits from the support of the rest of the group.

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