Evaluation of the Teaching Methods Used in Teaching Senior High School Biology

Abstract

This study was conducted in Bolgatanga Senior High School, located in the upper east region of Ghana in the Talensi district. This study aim was to evaluate the teaching methods used in teaching Senior High School biology as teacher’s skills in conducting lesson and choice of teaching methods play an essential role in improving students’ interest and understanding in biology concepts at the Senior High School level. A total of 520 biology students comprising of 296 males and 224 females were used to carry out this study. The responses revealed that 302 students representing 58% of students find biology lessons interesting and 218 students representing 18% of students indicated that their interest in biology lessons depends on the task the teacher presents to them during lessons and the method used by the teacher, and 24% regarded biology uninterested subject. However, all students prefer watching the teacher presentation, listening to their teacher telling them about the concepts, and performing laboratory practices. Many students find biology interesting and participate effectively when the teacher uses discussion method in delivering lessons, and when the lesson is hands-on practices. The study also revealed that the methods used by teachers most frequently are explanation, demonstration, and discussion. Students prefer laboratory work, discussions and listening to their teacher and watching presentations than other methods. Findings also indicated that students desire that theory is linked with practical and involve information technologies.