An appraisal of the scope of biology fieldwork in Gozo

Abstract

This study is aimed to investigate the extent to which fieldwork is used in Secondary Schools of Gozo, the factors which make it enjoyable and the drawbacks which come with it. The study was conducted through the distribution of both questionnaires and interviews. Questionnaires were distributed to all Biology secondary students while interviews were conducted with all Biology teachers both those teaching in secondary and also those teaching in Post-secondary schools. It was found that all Biology students and teachers will carry out at least one fieldwork as this is part of the requirements in the syllabus. Both students and teachers find fieldwork as an enjoyable and useful experience. It was found that most students enjoy fieldwork as they are outside the school environment. Adding to this, they feel that they acquire more knowledge through group work. Teachers enjoy fieldwork especially when they see their students enjoying themselves as they learn at the same time. The main issue concerning students was the lab report as a follow up for the fieldwork. On the other hand, teachers are faced with several problems mainly time constrains, objections from administration and safety issues. In fact, all teachers agreed with the implementation of students' personal insurance. Although teachers are aware of the benefits of fieldwork, the amount of fieldwork performed is very low and this is mainly due to the difficulties teacher encounter.