Factors Affecting The Attitude Of Teachers Towards Teaching Biological Sciences In Secondary Schools

Abstract

Science is an intellectual activity encompassing systematic understanding of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation.  It aims at developing scientific literacy, enabling individuals to understand and apply scientific knowledge and principles in everyday life. Science education involves the teaching and learning of science concepts. It aims at developing students’ understanding of scientific principles, processes and applications in their day-to-day life.  It develops in the students the skills of creativity, logical thinking and reasoning.  Teaching Biological Sciences is the process of educating students about living organisms – including plants, animals and micro-organisms – covering their structure, function, growth, evolution and interactions with the environment.  It aims to foster scientific temper, critical thinking and a better understanding of life processes, health and agriculture. The teachers of Biological Sciences should possess a positive attitude and right perceptions towards teaching Biological Sciences. The present study is an attempt to explore the factors affecting the attitude of teachers towards teaching Biological Sciences in secondary schools.  The researchers used a well-developed questionnaire as the tool for collection of data from a sample of 160 teachers (80 Headmasters and 80 School Assistants in Biological Sciences) from 80 selected secondary schools located in the rural as well as urban areas in West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh using Stratified Random Sampling method.  The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.  The findings of the study revealed that the demographic variables – ‘Gender’ and ‘Professional qualification’ of teachers have no influence on their attitude towards teaching Biological Sciences at secondary level.  However, ‘Teaching Experience’ has a significant positive influence on their attitude, with senior teachers experienced 10 years and above exhibiting better attitude towards teaching Biological Sciences in secondary schools.  The study suggested that the teachers should use digital tools in teaching Biological Sciences to improve student learning.