The Impact of Integration of E-Learning in Science: Applying Technology in Biology Classes as a Model.

ABSTRACT

Background The most common teaching method in science is the lecture-based approach. E-learning is one of the advanced teaching methodologies that have gained attention in recent decades. It was hypothesized that the intervention of e-learning improved students' scores and satisfaction in biology classes. The purpose of this study was to determine if e-learning combined with traditional learning methods of lectures would improve unified students' scores and satisfaction in biology classes. Methodology The study design was a quasi-experimental approach. This study was conducted at the College of Science and Health Professions Jeddah, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study subjects comprised first-year female students (pre-professional program) in two different classes. The total number of participants was 150 (75 students in each group). The systematic random sampling technique was used. Randomly, one class (experimental group) received e-learning in addition to traditional lectures, and the other group (control group) received traditional lecture. The "Biology for Health Sciences" course was selected for this purpose. Scientific pre-test and post-tests were performed, and a satisfaction questionnaire was filled in for both groups. Results We found that e-learning and traditional lecture improved students' scores (P<0.01). Learning progress in the e-learning group was significantly more than that in the control group (P<0.05). Lecture has been shown to increase learning gains by 33%, and the integration of e-learning increased learning gains by 62%. Analysis of questionnaire results showed improved student satisfaction with the course in the study group. Conclusion The integration of e-learning approach significantly improved the retention and students' scores and satisfactions. E-learning could be applied more in pre-professional year science courses. According to these advantages, the quality of science education can be improved with this approach.