Teacher's Adaptation and Coping Strategies in Teaching Biology Subject: Basis for the Development of Improvised Materials

Abstract

Introduction

The teaching of biology is very important because the biological concept helps in improving the quality of life. Knowledge of biology helps in solving many social problems relating to health, poverty, food shortage, and crop production and environmental conservation. Resources are a big issue in teaching, especially in science. Students will learn best if they are actively engaged and if their activities are closely linked to understanding important biological concepts. Hands-on activities and experimentation can give students an understanding of the concept for the particular lesson in biology. This study wants to describe the different biology materials available in the eight high schools of San Luis District, Division of Pampanga. Through the inventory materials gathered, this study dealt with the adaptation and coping strategies of biology teachers in using instructional resources in teaching biology.

Methods

This study used a mixed-method of research involving quantitative and qualitative approaches. This method of research is evaluative in its nature and is conducted through a survey. The technique aims to analyze the existing condition for evaluation. This uses questionnaires, interviews and document analysis.

Results

The study made an inventory of the biology materials used in grade 7. After the inventory of materials gathered, the study comes up to the survey questionnaires and interviews with the biology 7 teachers. The result of the study showed that (1) the Majority of the Biology grade 7 teachers in San Luis District, Division of Pampanga are new in the public services, most of them are in the middle age ranging to 30-40 years old, most of them are married. They didn't get enough seminars and training because they are newly hired in public school. (2) Most of the high schools in San Luis District have insufficient laboratory materials, and (3) Most of the teachers do not improvised materials to be used in the activity or experiment.

Discussions

The result of the study demonstrates that there is a need for the following recommendation: (1) The department of education must provide materials like books, modules and laboratory apparatus, and equipment in teaching especially in science for public schools to enhance the teaching and learning process. (2) Conduct more training and seminars for the teachers especially in improvising laboratory materials. (3) Resource allocation for science education should be improved. (4) Recognize the use of improvised microscopes made in this study.