Understanding the Challenges of Teaching Computer Science Subjects from School Teachers’ Perspective

Authors

  • Nurul Husna Mahadzir Computer Science & Mathematics Studies, College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Mara Kedah, Malaysia
  • Nor Hafizah Abdul Razak Computer Science & Mathematics Studies, College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Mara Kedah, Malaysia
  • Siti Nurbaya Ismail Computer Science & Mathematics Studies, College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Mara Kedah, Malaysia
  • Zanariah Idrus Computer Science & Mathematics Studies, College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Mara Kedah, Malaysia
  • Zainura Idrus College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Al-Khawarizmi Building, Universiti Teknologi Mara Shah Alam, Malaysia
  • Roselina Ramli Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Kedah, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32890/jtom2024.19.1.1

Keywords:

Computer science, school teachers, teaching challenges

Abstract

The implementation of Computer Science (CS) in Malaysian secondary schools aims to develop digital proficiency among youths. Despite this, Kedah state has seen fluctuating enrolment in CS elective subjects for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exam between 2018 and 2021, which contrasts with the increasing popularity of CS programs in higher education and the rising demand for CS skills.
Addressing the challenges teachers face in delivering CS subjects is crucial, including issues like inadequate training, limited resources, language barriers, and diverse student backgrounds. This study uses a quantitative approach with self-developed questionnaires distributed among experienced CS teachers in Kedah to identify these challenges and propose solutions. Findings reveal a mix of experienced and less experienced teachers, mostly with medium-level proficiency. The study highlights difficulties in teaching Form 4 and Form 5 content and suggests improvements through professional development, collaboration, hands-on experiences, and updated resources to enhance teaching effectiveness and better align secondary education with higher education and job market needs.

Author Biographies

  • Nor Hafizah Abdul Razak, Computer Science & Mathematics Studies, College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Mara Kedah

    Senior Lecturer,

    College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics,

    Universiti Teknologi MARA, Kedah Branch, Kedah, Malaysia

  • Siti Nurbaya Ismail, Computer Science & Mathematics Studies, College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Mara Kedah

    Senior Lecturer,

    College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics,

    Universiti Teknologi MARA, Kedah Branch, Kedah, Malaysia

  • Zanariah Idrus, Computer Science & Mathematics Studies, College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi Mara Kedah

    Senior Lecturer,

    College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics,

    Universiti Teknologi MARA, Kedah Branch, Kedah, Malaysia

  • Zainura Idrus, College of Computing, Informatics & Mathematics, Al-Khawarizmi Building, Universiti Teknologi Mara Shah Alam

    Senior Lecturer,

    School of Computing Sciences, College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics,

     Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Malaysia

  • Roselina Ramli, Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Kedah

    Learning Sector, Kedah State Education Department,

     Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia

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Published

31-07-2024

How to Cite

Mahadzir, N. H., Abdul Razak, N. H., Ismail, S. N., Idrus, Z., Idrus, Z., & Ramli, R. (2024). Understanding the Challenges of Teaching Computer Science Subjects from School Teachers’ Perspective. Journal of Technology and Operations Management, 19(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.32890/jtom2024.19.1.1