Efficacy of Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) as an Innovative Approach for Improved Learning of Biology among Secondary School Students in Sokoto State, Nigeria
Suleiman Sa’adu Matazu
Department of Science and Vocational Education,
Faculty of Education and Extension Services,
Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria,
Email: greatsaad10@gmail.com
Orcid ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3292-3315
Abstract
The incorporation of virtual learning environment (VLE) into the biology education is capable of bringing innovative and transformative opportunities for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. This study therefore examined the efficacy of virtual learning environment (VLE) as an innovative approach for improved learning of Biology among secondary school students in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The study employed quasi experimental design with a population of 3716 senior secondary schools (SS II) in Sokoto metropolis. A sample of 132 students obtained from two intact classes were used for the study. Two objectives, two research questions, and two corresponding null hypotheses guided the study. Biology Performance Test (BPT) was used as an instrument for data collection which was validated by experts and exhibited reliability of 0.79 using test re-test method and Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient PPMCC). Mean, standard deviation and independent t-test statistics were used for data analyses and results obtained showed that there was significant difference between the performance of experimental group and control group in favor of the experimental group and no significant difference was found in the performance of male and female students taught with virtual learning environment. It was recommended among others that the use of virtual learning environment should be incorporated at secondary school level for better teaching and learning of biology with special attention given to both male students in virtual learning environments as virtual learning environment is gender friendly. State government and other stakeholders should endeavor to equip all secondary schools within the state with resources needed for virtual learning environments.
Keywords
Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), STEM education, Biology education
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