Competencies of the Biology Teachers in the Secondary Level of Education in the Division of Albay

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to determine the competence of secondary biology teachers in the Division of Albay. Specifically, it sought to answer the level of competence of secondary biology teachers in the division of Albay in terms of content, instructional skills, communication skills, the strengths and weaknesses of the secondary biology teachers in the Division of Albay. The results of this study will help develop a training design to enhance the level of competencies of secondary biology teachers in the division of Albay.

METHODS

This research used the quantitative, descriptive method of research. It utilized primary sources of data. The population of the study consists of secondary biology teachers in the division of Albay. It made use of Maquizos formula of representative sampling to determine the size of the sample. Systematic random sampling was used to identify the schools that will be included in the study.

RESULTS

Respondents had full mastery in Reproduction, Life Cycle, and Heredity, least mastery in Genetics and Evolution, and Ecology. This study found that no teacher in the division of Albay is poor in any of the seven competencies. The general mastery level along the content of Biology subject was near mastery. Along with instructional skills, lecture discussion, cooperative learning and group work were commonly used methods of teaching while field trip was the least method used. Biology teachers most often use lecture, workshop, and role-playing as strategies in teaching. Also, they used chalkboard, textbooks, chars, and worksheets as instructional materials most often. Along with communication skills, no teacher was poor in grammar. They were very satisfactory on junction and stress but needs improvements in pronunciation.

DISCUSSIONS

Biology teachers have near mastery levels of competencies on the topics in the biology subject. They used a variety of methods, strategies, and instructional materials. They had satisfactory skills in grammatical skills, However, they need improvement in pronunciation. The training design for genetics and Evolution, Ecology and communication skills were proposed of Biology teachers. Teachers should enroll in post-graduate studies to enhance their competencies on the content of Biology subjects. They also have to attend seminars to further enrich their skills so they can use other methods and strategies in teaching. Biology teachers should also enroll in speech clinics and other training that will develop their speaking skills.