ISSN 2360-7963
Abstract
Despite its importance in the science curriculum and its relevance to national development goals, students in most Kenyan secondary schools continue to record low achievement in biology across all three papers in national examinations. For instance, there has been persistent low biology performance among learners in Likuyani Sub-County, Kakamega County, with a national mean score of 2.85 between 2019 and 2023. Thus, this study sought to investigate the effectiveness of integrating Virtual Laboratory-Based Instruction (VLBI) into the teaching of biology practical lessons on students' academic performance and conceptual understanding in secondary schools in Likuyani Sub-County, Kakamega County, Kenya. The study employed a quasi-experimental mixed-methods design. A total of 339 Form Three hundred and seventy-one students (271 experimental, 68 control) and 46 biology teachers from public secondary schools participated. Data were collected using Biology Achievement Tests (pre- and post-tests), structured questionnaires, interview schedules and classroom observation checklists. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS Version 25.0 through z-tests and ANOVA, while qualitative data were thematically analysed. Pre-test results confirmed baseline equivalence between groups (z = 1.21, p = 0.226). Post-test scores indicated a statistically significant improvement in the experimental group (M = 66.37, SD = 8.68) compared to the control group (M = 49.93, SD = 7.31), with z = 15.94, p < 0.001. Thematic analysis further revealed enhanced student engagement, motivation and conceptual clarity, especially in complex topics such as genetics, cell structure and ecology. The findings demonstrated that VLBI has a positive impact on both academic performance and conceptual understanding in biology, particularly in resource-constrained settings. These insights are critical for curriculum developers, policymakers and educators dedicated to improving science education outcomes through innovative instructional strategies.
Keywords: Biology, Instruction, Performance, Students, Virtual laboratory