Quality of Science Teaching in Public Secondary Schools in Rivers State: The Journey So Far
A. A. Arokoyu *
Department of Curriculum Studies and Educational Technology, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
T. S. B. Aderonmu
Department of Curriculum Studies and Educational Technology, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The study seeks to explore certain variables necessary for the provision of quality science learning in Rivers State. Two sets of questionnaires tagged; “Questionnaire on Quality Science Teaching in Secondary Schools (QQSTSS) and Science Laboratory Apparatus Observational Checklist (SLAOC) were utilized as the research instruments. Ex-post facto and Survey research design were adopted for the study. The sample size consisted of 68 science teachers randomly selected from three (3) Local Government Areas in Rivers State. Using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient method for calculating reliability, a reliability index of 0.82. Data were analysed using frequency count, percentage and modified four-point Likert scale statistical analysis. The findings of the study amongst others revealed that teacher-students ratio in some Local Government Areas is not in line with the stipulated National Policy on Education of 1:40; there are insufficient science laboratory apparatus in the secondary schools and the allocation of period for science subject teaching is insufficient. Recommendations were posited based on the findings in Rivers State, Nigeria.
Keywords: Quality, science teaching, science laboratory, teacher – students ratio, urriculum.