Enhancing Microorganism Education: Perspectives of Science and Pre-Service Teachers on the Use of Comic Strips

Objectives: This study explored the development and evaluation of Bacteria Chronicle: Invisible but Mighty as an innovative instructional material for teaching science, with particular emphasis on microbiology. Method: Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, descriptive data were gathered from science teachers within the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Municipality of Ajuy, Iloilo, Philippines, and pre-service teachers enrolled in the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in science program at Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), Iloilo, Philippines. Complementary qualitative data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and open-ended questionnaires. Findings: The results indicated that the comic strip, as evaluated by the science teachers, was satisfactory across all criteria, with a mean score of 2.12, whereas the pre-service teachers rated it very Satisfactory across almost all criteria, and the mean score ranged from 2.48 to 2.85, except for format, writing construction, and neatness. The findings indicate generational differences in receptivity to visual and narrative learning tools. For comparing the responses of the two groups, almost all categories were significant, indicating that the innovations are appealing and have the potential to become an effective instructional material. Responses to the qualitative parts also give both strengths and areas for improvement. To make it more appealing to learners, key points should include improvements in grammar, clearer titles, varied color intensity, and humor to further engage learners. From the previous title, Prolific Organisms Called Bacteria, it was changed to Bacteria Chronicle: Invisible but Mighty. Novelty: This study makes a novel contribution by demonstrating that comic strips can simultaneously enhance conceptual understanding and motivation in science learning through science communication and multimedia pedagogy. It further highlights the role of institutional support and the potential of integrating comics with digital technologies in higher education to be utilized in basic education curricula. Keywords: Comic strips, Science education, Microbiology, Instructional materials, Teacher and student engagement