Speaker
Description
Eche, P. I.
FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ODUGBO
patrickinalegwueche@gmail.com
Track: Digital Pedagogy and Teaching Innovation
Abstract.
The integration of virtual laboratories and simulation-based inquiry into secondary school Biology education has emerged as a transformative approach to enhancing learner-centered engagement in Nigeria. Traditional Biology instruction in many Nigerian secondary schools is often characterized with myriads of limitations such as inadequate laboratory facilities, insufficient instructional materials, overcrowded classrooms, and limited opportunities for practical experimentation. Virtual laboratories and simulation technologies offer innovative alternatives by enabling students to conduct experiments, explore biological concepts, and engage in inquiry-based learning within interactive digital environments. This paper examines the concept of virtual laboratories and simulation-based inquiry, their relevance to Biology education, and their potential to improve students' engagement, critical thinking, scientific literacy, and academic achievement. The paper further discusses the challenges associated with implementing these technologies in Nigerian secondary schools, including infrastructural deficiencies, inadequate teacher competencies, poor internet connectivity, and funding limitations. Recommendations are offered for policymakers, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to facilitate the effective adoption of virtual laboratory technologies. The study concludes that, the integration of virtual laboratories and simulation-based inquiry can significantly enhance learner-centered Biology education and contribute to improved educational outcomes in Nigeria.