Problems And Possible Solutions Of Teaching And Learning Computer Science In Junior Secondary Schools
(Enugu state college of education (tech) Enugu)
Teaching and learning computer science in junior secondary schools present numerous challenges and potential remedies. One issue is the lack of qualified instructors proficient in computer science concepts and pedagogy, leading to inadequate delivery of the curriculum. Additionally, limited access to modern technological resources and outdated infrastructure hinder practical learning experiences, essential for understanding abstract concepts. Furthermore, the dynamic nature of computer science necessitates continuous updates to curriculum and teaching methodologies to keep pace with evolving technologies. Possible solutions include comprehensive teacher training programs to enhance educators’ proficiency in computer science, strategic partnerships with technology companies to provide access to resources like hardware, software, and online learning platforms, and regular curriculum reviews to incorporate emerging trends and technologies. Moreover, fostering a supportive learning environment through extracurricular activities, such as coding clubs and hackathons, can stimulate students’ interest and engagement in computer science. Ultimately, addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that integrates teacher capacity building, infrastructure development, curriculum enhancement, and extracurricular opportunities to nurture a thriving computer science education ecosystem in junior secondary schools.
This study was conducted to determine science in Junior Secondary Schools in Enugu Educational Zone. In order to carry out this study effectively two (2) research questions where asked and answered. Which are; what are the major problems of teaching and learning computer science in Junior Secondary Schools in Enugu Educational Zone and how can such problems be tackled? The instrument used is questionnaire. Data obtained where analyzed are many problems yet to be solved in teaching and learning computer science especially lack of qualified teachers and computer in our Junior Secondary Schools.
Title page i
Certification ii
Approval page iii
Dedication iv
Acknowledgement v
Table of contents vi
Abstract ix
Chapter One
Background of the study 1
Statement of the problems 3
Purpose of the study 3
Significance of the study 4
Scope of the study 4
Research questions 5
Research hypotheses 5
Chapter Two
Literature review 6
Constraints to effective implementation of
computer science curriculum 8
Recommendation of solutions
Chapter Three
Methodology 13
Research Design 13
Area of the study 13
Population of the study 14
Sample of the study 14
Instrument for data connection 14
Validation of instrument 15
Administration of instrument 15
Method of data analysis 15
Chapter Four
Result 17
Research question 1 17
Table 1 18
Table 2 22
Summary of the result 23
Chapter Five
Conclusion, implications and recommendations 24
Conclusions 24
Implications 24
Recommendations 24
INTRODUCTION
Background Of The Study
Education by the end of the 20th century no longer prepares individuals to secure white colar Jobs or life long employment in local industries or services. Rather education is for individuals and National developments. Similarly, the major objective of education is to bring about desirable change in behaviour in individuals and society at large. Abimade (1998) stated that the realization of the noblerole of computer in man’s quest for or comfortable living has today necessitated the introduction of computer as a curriculum in all the levels of our education institution.
Recently, computer science students was introduced in the state to few selected secondary schools in Enugu education zone in (2000/2001) academic session by education resources teachers by contract from western part of the country. Unfortunately, there are myriad problems that are still hampering the proper take off of the studies in our Secondary Schools in Nigeria at large and Enugu State in particular.
Some of these problems can be classified as lack of computer science teaches and computer components in our Schools. The very few teachers that are available were posted to selected urban schools. The result is that computer studies has not started well in Enugu State in as much as it has not been registered in JSSCE examination. Even in urban schools the number of computer teaches are grossly inadequate not to talk of rural schools. That may be why Okeke (2008) stated that he State Ministry of education may only register students in computer studies in JSSCE when the product of Enugu State college of education and other higher institutions may have produced enough teachers to go round the state secondary schools.
These trained teachers would definitely provide the teaching that one required in the secondary schools.
Therefore, the statement problem of this study put as a question is:-
Statement Of The Problems
How would the Enugu State government produce computer science teachers that could effect teaching/learning computer studies effectively in our secondary schools?
Purpose Of The Study
This study investigated the problems and possible solutions of teaching / learning computer science in Junior Secondary Schools Enugu Education Zone. Specifically the study sought to find out the type of problem and the solution required.
Significance Of The Study
This study may highlight the problems that hamper proper take off of Computer studies in Enugu State. These study might suggest the problem of lack of teacher for Computer solutions for the Ministry of Education. The study may provide some adhoc decisions for the principals in the course of teaching Computer Science. It may also suggest possible text books that may be recommended for the students and few teachers.
Scope Of The Study
This study focused on investigating the problem and possible solutions of teaching/learning computer science in Junior Secondary Schools in Enugu education Zone. The study used JSS 2 students in Secondary Schools in Enugu, Enugu Education Zone because there is no registration of Computer studies in JSSCE.
Research Questions
1. What are the major problems of teaching and learning computer science in Junior Secondary Schools in Enugu education zone?
2. How can such problems be tackled?
RESEARCH HYPOTHESES
There is no significant difference between the problems of teaching/learning computer science and any other basic science?
SHARE PROJECT MATERIALS ON:
Teaching and learning computer science in junior secondary schools can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some common problems and possible solutions to improve the effectiveness of computer science education at this level:
Problems:
- Lack of Qualified Teachers: One of the primary challenges is the shortage of qualified computer science teachers in junior secondary schools.
- Solution: Provide professional development opportunities for existing teachers and encourage computer science graduates to pursue teaching careers by offering incentives like scholarships or higher salaries.
- Outdated Curriculum: Computer science is a rapidly evolving field, and many schools use outdated or inadequate curricula.
- Solution: Regularly update the curriculum to reflect current industry trends and emerging technologies. Collaboration with industry experts can help ensure relevance.
- Insufficient Resources: Many schools lack the necessary hardware, software, and internet access for effective computer science education.
- Solution: Seek grants, donations, or partnerships with technology companies to provide schools with the necessary resources. Utilize open-source software to reduce costs.
- Gender Gap: There’s often a significant gender gap in computer science classes, with fewer girls participating.
- Solution: Implement programs and initiatives to encourage girls to pursue computer science, such as female-focused coding clubs, mentorship programs, and awareness campaigns.
- Lack of Practical Application: Computer science can be abstract, and students may struggle to see its real-world relevance.
- Solution: Integrate practical projects and real-world applications into the curriculum to make learning more engaging and relatable.
- Assessment Challenges: It can be difficult to assess students’ computer science skills effectively.
- Solution: Develop clear assessment criteria and use a variety of methods, including practical exams, coding assignments, and project-based assessments.
- Limited Time: The school timetable may not allocate enough time for computer science education.
- Solution: Advocate for more time within the curriculum or explore options for after-school or extracurricular computer science clubs.
- Teacher Burnout: Teaching computer science can be demanding, and some teachers may experience burnout.
- Solution: Implement a supportive work environment, provide ongoing professional development, and encourage collaboration among teachers to share best practices.
- Lack of Motivation: Students may lack motivation to learn computer science if they don’t see its long-term benefits.
- Solution: Highlight the potential career opportunities and the relevance of computer science skills in various fields. Bring in guest speakers from the tech industry to inspire students.
- Inadequate Preparatory Education: Some students may enter junior secondary schools with limited exposure to basic computer skills.
- Solution: Implement pre-requisite courses or bridge programs to ensure that all students have a foundational understanding of computer basics.
- Inequity in Access: Students from disadvantaged backgrounds may have less access to computers and the internet outside of school.
- Solution: Explore options for providing take-home devices or internet access to students in need, or organize computer science-related activities in school facilities.
Addressing these problems requires a collaborative effort from educational institutions, government bodies, industry partners, and the community to ensure that computer science education in junior secondary schools is accessible, engaging, and effective for all students.