PHYSICS TEACHERS’ UTILISATION OF DIGITAL MIND MAPPING TOOLS FOR DEVELOPING HIGHER-ORDER COGNITIVE SKILLS IN PHYSICS CONCEPTS IN YENAGOA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BAYELSA STATE

Abstract

This study examined Physics teachers’ utilization of digital mind mapping tools for supporting higher-order cognitive skills in Physics learning in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The study adopted a mixed-method research design. The population consisted of 103Physics teachers in the public and private secondary schools in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The sample comprised 51 Physics teachers, consisting of 17 from public and 34 from private secondary schools obtained using multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and semi-structured interview guide. The questionnaire yielded a Cronbach’s alpha reliability index of 0.83. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, while an independent-sample t-test was used to test the hypothesis at the 0.05 level. Qualitative data were analysed thematically through coding, categorisation, theme development, review and interpretation. Findings showed that Physics teachers utilsed digital mind mapping tools to a low extent in supporting analysis, evaluation and creation [Mean = 2.32]. Physics teachers agreed that inadequate digital devices, poor internet connectivity and electricity supply, insufficient training and technical support, limited preparation time and inadequate digital resources constituted challenges [Mean = 3.72]. There was no significant difference between public and private Physics teachers’ utilization of digital mind mapping tools for developing higher-order cognitive skills in Physics concepts [t(49) = 0.36, p = .720]. The study concludes that effective utilisation requires improved teacher capacity, infrastructure and institutional support. The study therefore recommends among others that subject-specific professional development and improved digital infrastructure to facilitate effective utilisation among others.