Perceived factors affecting the teaching of science in selected primary schools in Nabweya Sub - County in Bududa District

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Date
2018-02
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Publisher
Kampala International University; College of Education Open and Distance Learning
Abstract
The study was carried out to investigate the perceived factors affecting the teaching of science in selected primary schools in Nabweya Sub - County Bududa District and focused on lack of instructional materials, teaching methods used, teacher competence and how these affect the teaching I learning of science. The research design was qualitative in nature and employed descriptive techniques. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect data from the respondents. The target groups were head teachers, teachers, directors of studies and pupils. The data collected was presented in tables and then analyzed using percentages and descriptive techniques. The study found out that most teachers use instructional materials inconsistently (only rarely) and that lack of instructional materials limits pupil participation in lessons, learners easily forget what is taught, leaves abstract concepts which is unclear to learners, takes more time to present lessons and science remains a mystery to learners. All these affect pupils understanding which leads to poor" performance. It was also found out that teachers possess knowledge and understanding of practical, learner centered methods of teaching science but most of them don't use the methods instead they prefer using teacher centered methods because they are easy to apply. These teacher centered methods limit learner participation and understanding of science. The study established that teacher competence affects the teaching of science in that teachers who have mastered the subject matter/content are confident and better at presenting science lessons than those who are not competent. Those who taught science as a choice also did better than those who are forced to take it up. Following the findings above, it is recommended that government considers specialization and competence based training for primary school teachers, builds science rooms/ laboratories. Equip schools with basic science equipment recruiting lab technicians and teachers to adopt learner centered and practical methods of teaching science.
Description
A research report submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Award of Bachelor of Education Primary of Kampala International University
Keywords
Teaching of science, Primary schools, Bududa District, Uganda
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