Exploring the Real Impact of ICT Tools on Secondary School Students’ Learning of Geography

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of ICT tools on student motivation, specifically examining whether immersive experiences, such as using Google Earth, enhance the understanding of geographical concepts in secondary school geography classes. A mixed-methods survey was conducted with 100 students participating in specific geographical educational activities. The data analysis revealed that using Google Earth significantly influences student motivation. The study found that virtual field trips enhance and increase students' enthusiasm for learning geography. An open-ended questionnaire was administered to 100 students out of a total of 450, revealing a statistically significant improvement in learning outcomes when students engaged in virtual field trips using experimental and self-directed learning strategies. The findings support the importance of experiential and self-directed learning strategies in teaching geography through virtual field trips. Moreover, the integration of ICT tools facilitates a deeper understanding of geographical concepts while fostering a more collaborative, interactive, and immersive learning environment. The study also indicates that student motivation was unaffected by previous ICT tool experience or gender. In light of these findings the study recommends incorporating digital and professional competencies in teacher training to prepare them for designing smart, flexible classrooms that cater to learners' needs in the digital age.