Pre-Service Teachers' Perspectives towards the Use of GammaTutor in Teaching Physical Sciences in South African Secondary Schools

Abstract

This paper reports on introducing a techno-blended model for science teaching in South African senior secondary schools. Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework was used as a lens for the interpretation of pre-service science teachers' use of the GammaTutor tool in the classroom for collaboration and creativity. The study employed an interpretivist multi-case design that purposefully sampled ten pre-service science teachers. Data were collected through non-participatory classroom observation and interviews. Data were then analysed qualitatively using deductive approaches with a modified version of TPACK as an analytical framework. The study found that pre-service science teachers were enthusiastic about using the GammaTutor tool because they believed it engaged their learners in the teaching-learning process and facilitated the assessment of tasks. The pre-service teachers felt that the GammaTutor tool enhanced their instruction by expanding their access to teaching-learning resources and personalising instruction. Additionally, the pre-service teachers discussed their concerns, particularly in assisting underperforming learners and effectively utilizing inquiry-based instruction using the GammaTutor tool. Notwithstanding certain apparent drawbacks, the study contributes to our understanding of how the TPACK concept might be employed as a framework for analysis in a particular situation. More crucially, teaching and learning are founded on the thorough integration of technological tools in day-to-day classroom activities.