The Effectiveness of an in-Service Modern Teaching Methodology Training Program for First Grade Secondary Female Biology Teachers and its Effect on Cultivating the Students’ Scientific Thinking Skills

Abstract

This study aimed at identifying the effectiveness of an in-service training program for first grade secondary female biology teachers by using modern teaching methods, and measuring its effect on cultivating the students’ scientific thinking skills in comparison to traditional methods. The semi-experimental approach was used in the study. The study sample was made up of (20) female biology teachers and (700) female students who comprised the study’s two experimental groups. The control group was (650) female students. The researcher prepared a rubric for measuring scientific thinking by students, as well as an observation tool for teachers. After statistical treatment of data by using T test, there were statistically significant differences between the performances of both study samples in favor of the two experimental groups. Therefore, the researcher highlights the importance of giving teachers the opportunity to attend training programs aimed at improving teaching competencies, especially teaching methodologies, due to their positive effect on cultivating the students’ scientific thinking skills.