Integrating Computers into Science Teaching: Perceptions & Practices

The use of computers has been increasing worldwide for teaching of science in secondary schools. Also in Pakistan, computers are now available in most of the private schools and their use is steadily increasing for teaching and learning. Government also intends to equip public secondary schools with computer labs. Various research studies suggest that appropriate and effective use of computers enhances and adds value to students’ learning in science education. However, the existing use of computers in schools in Pakistan appears not to be up to the level of its potential effectiveness, consequently having limited impact on students’ learning. Teachers are central to the successful use of computer resources in science teaching as the ways of using computers depends on how well teachers understand its use. Therefore, exploring their perceptions and practices of integrating computers into teaching of science would help understand the existing situation of computers uses in schools so that decisions about the future can be made.