Page 48 - ATENEO SERVED 2020 E-BOOK_Neat

Ateneo Science Educators and Researchers in Virtual
Engagement (SERVE) 2020 Ateneo de Manila University
School of Science and Engineering
MS Science Education Program of Biology Department

The Use of Biology Interactive Courseware (BIC) and Available Online
Resources in Blended Learning

a*
Jennifer D. Regala, MSc , Catherine Genevieve B. Lagunzad, PhD b

a
Department of Science and Mathematics, College of Education Arts and Sciences, National University ,
b
Department of Biology, School of Science and Engineering, Ateneo de Manila University
* Corresponding Author: jdregala@national-u.edu.ph

ABSTRACT

The study sought to determine the effect of the use of Biology Interactive Courseware (BIC) and available
online resources in blended learning on students’ academic achievement. Two groups of students, the
non-BIC and BIC groups participated in the study: traditional teaching approach was employed in non-BIC,
while the BIC group utilized the Biology Interactive Courseware and available online resources. Quantitative
analysis of the pretest and posttest scores revealed a significant improvement in academic performance in
both groups; however, further analysis through independent samples t test revealed that the BIC group
performed better during the posttest.
Qualitative data also supported the findings of this study that suggest the potential of Biology Interactive
Courseware and available online resources in improving the academic performance. The use of biology
interactive courseware and available online resources in instruction provided opportunities for students to
be more actively engaged in class through participation in interactive activities, group work and
collaborative learning.
During this time of pandemic, educational institutions are mandated by the Department of Education to
comply with the order to design alternative instruction delivery systems that can ensure continuity of
learning in basic education. Remote asynchronous mode of learning using the Biology Interactive
Courseware (BIC) and available online resources holds great promise, as teaching and learning can be done
at home with or without internet access for as long as students have their own mobile devices. Even when
face-to-face instruction delivery is employed, as an essential element of blended learning, learning can be
maximized because the use of BIC requires very little teacher supervision thus allowing for the strict
implementation of physical distancing. Moreover, the use of Biology Interactive Courseware (BIC) and
available online resources provides an opportunity for personal growth, and the development of one’s sense
of responsibility and accountability as students learn independently and at their own pace.

Keywords: Biology, Courseware, interactive, online

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