The integration of ICTs in the learning and teaching of science at Namibian College of Open Learning

Abstract

The Namibian College of Open Learning (NAMCOL) is a state funded educational institution which provides educational opportunities for adults and out-of-school youth. Learners’ enrolment for science subjects increased over the past years, 9 060 learners enrolled for Biology and Physical Science at Ordinary level in 2011 compared to 8 223 learners recorded in 2010 (NAMCOL, 2011). //

Over the past 4 years, certain subjects have been identified as target subjects in which additional teaching and learning resources are developed so as to enhance the learning and understanding of the subject (NAMCOL, 2010).To this effect, during the 2011-2012 academic year, the College spent over N$ 1.4 million in producing e-lessons, radio, television lessons and establishing computer laboratories in various towns in the country (NAMCOL, 2011). For the past two years NAMCOL has trained tutors on how to access and utilise the web based lessons. Tutors are also trained on how to retrieve information from the internet and develop own teaching materials. Participants in this study are grade 12 learners studying Physical Science and Biology at NAMCOL centres in Windhoek, Keetmanshoop, Rundu and Ongwediva. These centres have been selected because they offer NSSCO science subjects and have computer laboratories on the premises. //

This paper present assessment on the extent to which the Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) have been integrated in the teaching and learning of science subject at the NAMCOL centres. // The paper will present the finding of the study on the following questions: 1.How do tutors and learners perceive the integration of ICTs in the teaching and learning of Science subjects at NAMCOL centres? 2.What challenges are experienced, which impede the integration of ICTs in the teaching and learning of Science subjects at NAMCOL centres? // Paper ID: 440