An analysis of the Covid -19 pandemic impact on the teaching and learning of O’ level physics: a case study of two schools in Gokwe district of Zimbabwe
- Author
- Muzongondi, S.P.
- Title
-
An analysis of the Covid -19 pandemic impact on the teaching and learning of O’ level physics: a case study of two schools in Gokwe district of Zimbabwe
- Abstract
- The Covid-19 pandemic that hit Zimbabwe impacts the field of education. Governments enforce social distancing measures characterized by stay-at home strategies and the closure of schools and other learning facilities. The learning process is usually carried out face-to-face has turned into online learning. This study aims to analyze the impacts of COVID-19 in teaching and learning of O’level physics in Gokwe District in Zimbabwe. The rapid shift to an online learning environment demanded the development of effective teaching strategies to support student learning. Using a mixed method design, samples were chosen purposefully in school A and B in Gokwe District. The schools identified were schools that underperformed in physics as a subject in the COVID -19 era. Form 4 physics teachers, form 3 and 4 physics learners participated in this study. The data collection was achieved through use of closed-ended questionnaire, structured interview and documentation. The questionnaire was designed for completion by the learners (60). In addition, structured interviews were conducted with two physics teachers and two science HODs. Data collected through interviews, document analysis and observation were analyzed through thematic and discourse analysis. The results of this study revealed that the online teaching and learning of physics was affected by lack of internet access, unavailability of ICT gadgets and inadequate skills on both the teachers and students on the use of ICT tools and platforms. The study recommends that physics teachers and students need further training on the use of ICT tools and platforms and that the government must provide adequate resources in rural areas required for online teaching and learning in order to improve the pass rate at ‘o’ level physics.
- Date
- 2024
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- teaching and learning
- physics
- Supervisor
- Dr N. Zezekwa
- Media
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MUZONGONDI SIMBARASHE. P