Abstract
This research
work was aimed at examining the factors affecting the teaching of practical
Biology in secondary schools in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area. A total of
100 students were sampled for this study. Questionnaire was the instrument used
for collecting the data. Also used was WASCE Biology results for the past (6)
years (2001 – 2006) in the school sampled. Two hypotheses were formulated for
this study, and tested at 0.05 level of significance. It was discovered that
inadequate instructional materials, inadequate laboratory equipment and poor
motivation of teachers are the important factors affecting academic performance
of the students. It was recommended that government should put more efforts in
providing learning facilities, equipping laboratories and also motivating
teachers to make room for effective teaching / learning and good performance by
the students.
CHAPTER ONE
1.1 Background of the Study
The recognition of science and technology as a vehicle for the realization of the aspiration of any nation has generated global awareness of the need to improve the quality of science teaching (Uko 2004). According to Michael (2004), science is a systematic process of obtaining testable verifiable knowledge about the environment and nature through careful observation and experimentation. He also defined technology as the knowledge and the study of human endeavours in creating and using tools, techniques, resources and system to manage the man-made and natural environment for the process of extending human potentials.
Ukoh (2004) explained that high quality of science teaching will no doubt improve and expand the frontiers of science in our country. In order words, the laudable benefits of science and technology could only be realized through effective teaching and learning of science and technology subjects including Biology.
Teaching is viewed as a partnership enterprise between the teacher and the students, which ultimately lead to permanent changes in the behaviour of the students (Uko 2004). He also that it is planned process which requires the methodical application of techniques based nearly on behaviour. Teaching is systematic activity deliberately engage somebody to facilitate the learning of the intended work while knowledge, skills, attitude and values of another person and getting the necessary feedback. He further explained, instruction measuring and evaluating and that the main purpose of every teaching is to facilitate or bring about learning.
This work hopes to identify factors affecting students’ performance in practical Biology in secondary schools in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.