Using Collaborative Learning to Enhance Home Economics Students' Understanding of Some Basic Concepts in Ecology. A Case Study at Kade Senior High Technical School

Abstract

Collaborative learning is an educational strategy that makes use of groups to improve learning through teamwork. Students work together in groups of two or more to complete assignments, resolve issues, or come up with new ideas. This study sought to determine the effects of using collaborative learning to enhance students' understanding of some basic concepts in ecology at Kade Senior High Technical School in the Kwaebibirem Municipal assembly in the Eastern region of Ghana. The sample consisted of 45 students which were selected from 2 Home Economics A. The research instruments used for the study were tests on ecology. The researcher used appropriate groupings as an intervention. The data were examined statistically by computing the percentage scores for each test. Results from the pre-test revealed that students have difficulties with the description and explanation of some of the basic concepts in ecology and the differences between these concepts. After the intervention, the student’s ability to describe and explain some of the basic concepts in ecology and distinguish between them improved enormously. They grasped the basic understanding of the ecosystem, its various components, and the environment as a whole. Based on the results obtained, interesting findings came about and upon the findings, recommendations were made.

Keywords: Collaborative learning, Ecology, Appropriate groupings, Teamwork

DOI: 10.7176/RJFA/14-3-01

Publication date: February 28^th 2023