Exploring the pedagogical value of using Smartboards and Tablets in high school physical science classrooms

Abstract

In an attempt to improve the quality of education, the Department of Education installed Smartboards and gave Tablets to learners in selected township schools. These gadgets have now been used as instructional tools to enhance the understanding of abstract concepts and improve the quality of lesson delivery. This research study was conducted to find out if there is any pedagogical value in the use of these technologies in the teaching and learning of Physical Science. The study was carried out in two secondary schools, targeting one grade 12 teacher per school that used Smartboards and Tablets from 2015 to 2020 for teaching and learning. Data was collected through lesson observations and teacher interviews to understand how these teachers and their learners manipulate these technologies in Physical Science. The data was analyzed using a multi-level thematic process of coding to investigate relationships, differences, and similarities. Results have shown that teachers have developed a great enthusiasm for using these two technologies forteaching and learning. Also, there is considerable improvement in the level of understanding of the abstract concepts by learners in the focused subject