COMPETENCY OF STUDENTS IN THE IDENTIFICATION OF BIOLOGY LABORATORY APPARATUS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KADUNA STATE

Nuru Asabe Ramatu

Abstract


The main objective of this study was set to determine the competency level of Senior Secondary Biology students in identifying and stating names and uses of some laboratory apparatus. Three research questions and three hypotheses guided the study. Survey research design   was used for the study. The population for this study was 5587 Senior Secondary Biology students of public schools in Sabon-Gari and Kudan local government areas, Kaduna state. The sample of the study consisted of 357 students drawn using Krejcie and Morgan, table. The research instrument used in this study was Biology Students Laboratory Apparatus Questionnaire (BSLAQ) developed by the researcher. Frequency, Percentage score and t-test analysis with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20) were used to analyze the data. Result revealed that Biology students in the study areas have a very low competency level in identification and stating names and uses of common laboratory apparatus. T-test analysis further revealed that, there is no significant gender difference, in achievement based on gender and location. It was recommended that Biology teachers should be provided with adequate knowledge, skills and resources that will enable them to teach effectively in practical learning environments. Conducting more practical lessons will increase the exposure of Biology students to laboratory materials and equipment. 


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References


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