Nowadays, a computer with associated technology is an indispensable part of our everyday lives. Computer, Internet access and Microsoft Office programs have also become indispensable tools for teachers. They make it easier for teachers and their work, help plan lessons, are used to communicate with parents and other professionals. The science teaching guidelines and the content of the Natural Sciences and Technology syllabus indicate the importance of a wise and thoughtful use of information and communication technology (hereinafter called ICT) in teaching.
Research also shows that ICT contributes to a positive classroom climate and classroom dynamics. It also promotes students' cognitive abilities, collaborative learning, enables visualization of natural sciences concepts and presentation of related content (cross-curricular connection). This also guided the design of the master's thesis, which attempts to identify: a) what is the level of teachers’ computer competence, b) do gender and years of service of the teacher play a role in computer usage, c) what proportion of the time is devoted to teaching science classes with ICT and and which themes are taught using ICT, d) which technological instruments and programmes are used in teaching science and technology (SAT) classes, e) which situations in SAT classes allow pupils to use computers by themselves, f) which Microsoft Office programs are used by teachers to prepare for and conduct classes, g) what is the level of equipment in Slovenian SAT classrooms, and h) would teachers like to receive extra ICT education.
The questionnaire consisted of 16 questions, and was completed by 102 primary school teachers who teach in 4th and 5th grades. Of these 102 teachers, there were 94 women and 8 men. 53.9% were 4th grade teachers, and 46.1% were 5th grade teachers. Results indicate that older teachers use ICT less often than younger teachers, therefore, the usage of ICT declines with increasing duration of service. Results also demonstrate that teachers who teach SAT have access to a computer and the Internet, and are competent in computer usage. The teachers use Microsoft Office program suite to plan and conduct classes, and to present data. Out of all ICT instruments, polling systems are the least used by the teachers. Research shows that in SAT classes, pupils use computer primarily to search for additional sources of information in order to explain learning content. Teachers (70.6%) remain willing to continue their education in the field of ICT.
|
