The Impact of Educational Technology Tools on the Learning Achievement of B.Ed. Science Students in Ecology Class at Samtse College of Education

Abstract

Infusion of technology in education has tremendous potential to enhance students’ learning and enable them to become competent and prepare for their future career. The study explored the impact of educational technology tools on the learning achievement of B.Ed. science students in Ecology at Samste College of Education, Bhutan. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design and the study was guided by postpositivist worldview. Pretest and posttest were administered before and after the intervention. Purposive sampling was used to select one section of students at Samtse College of Education. The quantitative data were collected by using the survey questionnaire. The qualitative data was collected using semi-structured interviews. The quantitative data were analysed statistically using SPSS and qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings of the study revealed that students have positive opinion towards various educational technology tools as it made the learning interesting and fun. The mean difference between pretest and posttest was 8.6 indicating that educational technology tools has enhanced students learning achievement in Ecology. Triangulation of three data sources such as survey questionnaire, interview and literature also revealed that educational technology tools enhance students’ learning achievement. There are numerous advantages of using educational technology tools in teaching, learning and assessment. Some of the advantages of educational technology tools are gaining attention, motivating students, encouraging interaction and independent learning.  The finding also listed some challenges of using educational technology tools such as time management, understanding new educational technology, adaptability struggle, distraction, technical issues, and limited ICT knowledge. Educational technology tools integrated in the module will be further replicated by student teachers in schools. Therefore tutors were recommended to use variety of educational technology tools in learning, teaching and assessment. However, the finding of the study revealed that lack of knowledge on various educational technology tools was main factor that inhibits tutors from using it. Therefore professional development trainings on various educational technology tools were recommended.