Availability Of Laboratory Facilities For Effective Teaching – Learning Of Mathematics, Integrated Science And Computer Science In Junior Secondary Schools

(Case Study Of Enugu North L.G.A)

5 Chapters
|
43 Pages
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5,335 Words

The availability of well-equipped laboratory facilities plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of teaching and learning processes, particularly in subjects like mathematics, integrated science, and computer science at the junior secondary school level. These facilities provide students with practical hands-on experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of theoretical concepts and promoting critical thinking skills. In mathematics, laboratories enable students to visualize abstract concepts through practical applications, enhancing comprehension and problem-solving abilities. Similarly, in integrated science, laboratories facilitate experiments that allow students to observe scientific phenomena firsthand, reinforcing theoretical knowledge and stimulating scientific inquiry. Moreover, in computer science, access to up-to-date computer labs with relevant software enables students to develop practical programming skills and explore emerging technologies, preparing them for future careers in the digital age. Thus, the provision of well-equipped laboratory facilities is instrumental in creating an immersive and engaging learning environment, empowering students to excel academically and thrive in these essential subjects.

ABSTRACT

The primary objective of this research work was to determine the availability of laboratory facilities for effective teaching and learning of Mathematics, Integrated Science and Computer Science in Junior Secondary Schools in Enugu North L.G.A Enugu State, Nigeria. The descriptive survey research method was used for the study and data were analyzed descriptively using simple percentages. The results of the study reveal that school principals’ negative administrative styles and the inadequacy of duration/time allotted to health instruction in the schools were critical factors that affects health instruction in Enugu North L.G.A State Secondary Schools. The study equally show that lack of laboratory facilities, lack of relevant textbooks, pamphlets and posters were factors central to the poor state of education in Junior Secondary School in Enugu North L.G.A. Based on the findings, we made several recommendations including the need for school authorities in Enugu North L.G.A to provide relevant and modern textbooks, pamphlets, posters, computers and other related instructional materials. It was also recommended that the State Ministry of Education should help in enhancing the tenets of education by employing more experienced teachers in the Inspectorate Division of the Ministry had been assigned the responsibility of visiting the schools regularly in order to ensure that the schools, students and teachers are adequately implementing and using those facilities.

TABLE OF CONTENT

Title page
Approval page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Abstract
Table of Contents
List of tables

CHAPTER ONE:
INTRODUCTION
Background of the study
Scope Delimitation
Statement of the study
Purpose of the study
Significance of the study
Research Question

CHAPTER TWO:
LITERATURE REVIEW
Modern of Teaching Aids/Teaching Materials

CHAPTER THREE:
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Design
Area of Study
Population of the study
Sample and Sampling Techniques
Instrument for Data Collection
Validation of the Instrument
Method of data collection
Method of Data Analysis

CHAPTER FOUR:
PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS 18
OF DATA
Result

CHAPTER FIVE:
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS –
Findings
Summary
Conclusion
Implication of the finding
Limitation of the study
Recommendation
References
Questionnaire

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION
In Nigeria as well as in other countries, education is perceived as a tool for socio-economic and political developments and as such it is accorded the necessary attention. This position is amplified in the Nigerian National Policy on Education, which stated that education is an instrument par excellence for effecting national development, (The National Policy of Education, 2004). It is added further that education shall continue to be highly rated in the national development plans because education is the most important instrument of change and that any fundamental change in the intellectual and social outlook of any society has to be preceded by educational revolution.
Recent study by Jekayinka (1998), Suleman Atiku (1997), Ajayi and Ayodele (2001), proved that adequate supply of instructional resources has significant effects on student’s performances and enhances the effectiveness of instructional delivery and supervision.
However, there seems to be in Nigerian schools an alarming shortage and even complete absence of labouratory facilities. UNESCO (1998), further stressed that monitoring of learning achievement report on the available instructional materials and facilities in the 960 sample secondary schools across the country revealed. An NUC report as cited by ESCO (1998) stated that academic and physical facilities were in the deplorable states with insufficient lectures theaters/hall, laboratories and so on.
Thus, one begins to wonder how some of these universities scale the accreditation hurdle. That is why Ijaiya (2001) opined that the quality of education being provided for the Nigerian child has become of concern and lamented on the rot in the educational system. Also, Adeyemi and Igbenewaka (2001) observed that mismatch between growing enrolment and provision of facilities especially in respect of seats for students leads to overcrowding. He added that overcrowding creates undue stress on available space and results in the creation of rowdy behaviours, hanging outside the classrooms, and absence from activities around school premises. All these have negative effects on teaching and learning process.

Scope/Delimitation
This research work concentrated mainly on Enugu North Local Government Area in our case study. We also selected some few schools where we conducted most of our interview and shared our questions.
Enugu North Local Government Area is one of the 17 Local Government Areas in Enugu State. Administratively, Enugu State is divided into 17 Local Government Areas. But politically, they are three zones in the local Government, namely: Enugu North, Enugu South and Enugu West. The highly cosmopolitan nature of Enugu State is a major boast to high presence of many academic institutions both private and public, and is all categorized into primary, Junior and Senior Secondary and Tertiary levels of education.
This however does not mean that these academic places are out of the loop in terms of academic infrastructure, especially the laboratory facilities.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
The role of mathematics in the development of science and technology in modern economy cannot be over emphasized.
This role is multifaceted and multifarious that no area of science and technology escapes its application (Okereke, 2006)
Ukaeje (1989) described mathematics and the basic sciences as the mirrow or civilization and the most basic discipline for any person who would be truly educated an any science.
Despite the importance place on these basic sciences, researchers (Odili, 1886) Salan, 1985; Amazigo 2000; Agwagah, 2001, had observed that students lack interest in the thee subjects and perform poorly in them. For instance, (Ukeje 1986) observed that mathematics is one of the most poorly taught widely hated and abysmally, understood subject in secondary schools.
The West African Examination Council (WAEC) Chief Examiner (2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006) consistently reported candidates lack of skill in answering question in General mathematics in particular and the Basic sciences in general.
To buttress his argument, he reported that most candidates avoided questions on 3-dimensional problems, when they attempt geometry question; only few of the candidates showed a clear understanding of the problem in their working.
Although (Okigbo and Oguafor 2008) have carried out research on the effect of mathematics laboratory on the achievement of mathematics students, it is not certain how many of these schools have these mathematics laboratory or laboratories for the science subjects. We therefore need to adapt to the fast changing computer age.
Consequently evidence of poor performance in mathematics basic science and computer by secondary school students point to the fact that the most desired technological, scientific and business applications cannot be sustained.
The study is therefore designed to find out the availability mathematics or otherwise computer and Integrated Science Laboratories in JSS in Enugu North LGA of Enugu State.
It is also designed to find out the extent for which these Laboratories are equipped where they exist.

Purpose of the study
The importance of this study is that it will help to identify the availability of laboratory facilities in Junior Secondary Schools as well as the impact these facilities have on the effective teaching and learning of Mathematics, Integrated Science and Computer. It will also analyze critically some factors that affect individual performance of students in the selected schools.
Finally, the researcher proffers solution for those that will read and implement the work.

Significance of the study
The importance of this study is that it will help to identify the availability of laboratory facilities for effective teaching and learning of Mathematics, Integrated Science and Computer Science in Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State. This study would also help to provide some information for curriculum designers and classroom teachers in order to utilize facilities provided for them and other relevant approaches to enhance meaningful learning of Mathematics, Integrated Science and Computer Science by students. Thus, the knowledge of students’ cognitive style and attitude would be very useful in both academic and career enhancement. The finding from this study is expected to serve as guides for the educated policy makers towards ensuring that adequate educational facilities are provided in Enugu state.

Research Questions
The following research questions were raised:
Is there any adequate facility for effective teaching and learning of mathematics, integrated science in Enugu North Local Government Area?
Is the available facilities properly maintained?

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The availability of laboratory facilities for effective teaching and learning of mathematics, integrated science, and computer science in junior secondary schools is crucial for providing students with a well-rounded education in these subjects. Here are some key considerations and recommendations:

  1. Mathematics Laboratory:
    • Mathematics labs should be equipped with a range of mathematical tools and resources, including geometrical shapes, measuring instruments, calculators, and computers with mathematical software.
    • Interactive whiteboards and projectors can be used to demonstrate mathematical concepts effectively.
    • Ensure that the laboratory is well-maintained, organized, and conducive to collaborative learning.
  2. Integrated Science Laboratory:
    • Integrated science labs should contain various scientific equipment and materials, such as microscopes, test tubes, chemicals, and models, to facilitate hands-on experiments and observations.
    • Safety measures and protocols should be in place to ensure the well-being of students and staff working in the lab.
    • Regular maintenance and calibration of equipment are essential to ensure accurate results.
  3. Computer Science Laboratory:
    • A computer science lab should have a sufficient number of computers with up-to-date hardware and software, including programming languages and development tools.
    • High-speed internet access is crucial for research and online learning resources.
    • The lab should have network connectivity to enable collaboration and data sharing among students and teachers.
  4. Training and Support:
    • Teachers should receive training on how to effectively utilize the laboratory facilities and integrate them into their teaching methods.
    • Technical support staff should be available to address any issues with equipment and software promptly.
  5. Curriculum Integration:
    • Ensure that the curriculum for these subjects incorporates laboratory activities and experiments as an integral part of the learning process.
    • Encourage teachers to design lessons that make use of the available laboratory facilities to reinforce theoretical concepts.
  6. Safety Measures:
    • Implement strict safety guidelines and procedures in science and computer labs to protect students and educators.
    • Provide safety equipment, such as lab coats, goggles, and first aid kits.
  7. Accessibility:
    • Ensure that laboratory facilities are accessible to all students, including those with disabilities.
    • Design labs to be user-friendly and accommodate diverse learning styles.
  8. Regular Maintenance and Upkeep:
    • Allocate a budget for the regular maintenance, repair, and replacement of equipment and facilities to ensure they remain functional and safe.
  9. Monitoring and Evaluation:
    • Regularly assess the effectiveness of laboratory facilities in enhancing students’ learning experiences.
    • Collect feedback from both students and teachers to identify areas for improvement.
  10. Collaboration and Partnerships:
    • Collaborate with local industries, universities, and other educational institutions to access additional resources, expertise, and funding for improving laboratory facilities.

In summary, the availability and effective use of laboratory facilities in junior secondary schools for mathematics, integrated science, and computer science are essential for providing students with a well-rounded education. Proper planning, resource allocation, training, and maintenance are critical components of ensuring these facilities meet the needs of both students and educators.