Abstract:

This study was conducted so as to find how competent classroom teachers were in using Web 2.0 tools in teaching science. This study was conducted in convergent parallel design- one of the mixed research model. 113 classroom teachers teaching in schools located in Mersin were given the scale of competence in using web 2.0 tools on the quantitative dimension of the study. Semi-structured interviews were held with 8 classroom teachers on the qualitative dimension of the study. Besides, the in-class applications of the eight participants (participants’ products) were also put to document analysis. While the quantitative data reached were analysed on the SPSS 23 package programme, the qualitative data were put to content analysis. The results obtained in the scale were analysed in terms of a number of variables (such as gender, educational status, professional experience, types of school, frequency in using the internet, in-service training, etc.). This current study found that the participants’ rate of using web 2.0 tools was high. It was concluded that variables such as gender, professional experience and types of school did not cause significant differences in competence in web 2.0 tools. However, such factors as participation in e-Twinning project frequency in using the internet, receiving post-graduate education and in-service training were found to have positive effects on and to cause significant differences in using the tools. Majority of the participants stated in the interviews held for the qualitative part of the study that the science course was one of the most suitable courses in using web 2.0 tools. The participants mentioned the positive characteristics of web 2.0 tools in ensuring active learning and motivation. On the other hand, the qualitative data also indicated such negative points as inadequate infrastructure, time limitation and teachers’ low literacy in technology. An examination of participants’ products demonstrated that such applications as Kahoot and Learning Apps- web 2.0 tools- were chosen for use more frequently.

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