Page 22 - EDUCON 2022 Book of Abstracts

10. Kalengay, M., Kambeyo, L., Paulus, K. & Haimbodi, F.,
Exploring students’ experiences on online sciences practical
activities during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic practical sciences
activities for undergraduate students have been severely disrupted.
Activities in the field of Integrated Natural Sciences at the University
of Namibia Rundu campus were done online from 2020 to 2021
academic year.
Aim: The focus of this study was to examine students’ experiences on
practical distanced methods used such as in-lab sessions, remote
access to in-lab equipment, take-home kits, and other online methods.
Methodology: A qualitative approach was adopted to generate data
through semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews and
narratives. The participants were second year, third year and fourth
year students from the mathematics and science department.
Results: The results showed that students appreciate methods such as
take-home kits, remote access and individual simulation activities
while learning new practical skills. However, it was found that group
simulations and video or quiz activities were not satisfactory and
should be avoided.
Conclusion: Therefore, the shift to online sciences laboratory
activities is still a challenge to our capacity and boundaries of
collective knowledge, understanding and practice.
Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic, online teaching, Natural Science,
practical activities

11. Kambeyo, L. Junias, K., Katukula, K. M., An analysis of teacher
education programmes at a Namibian institution of Tertiary
Education
Background: A study on Teacher Professional Development
indicated the need for strengthening pre-service teacher education in

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