Gender Difference In Enrolment, Graduation And Academic Achievement In Nigeria Certificate In Education Biology Programme At Federal College Of Education, Zaria.

Maikano Amos

Abstract


This study investigated gender differences in enrolment, graduation of students and gender differences in academic achievement for Nigeria Certificate in Education Biology programme at Federal College of Education, Zaria.  This study was motivated by findings of researches that the era of male dominance and supremacy in science and technology is fast becoming history.  Ex-post facto research design was used.  This research sought to verify this fact.  A total sample of 1,672 (768 male and 904 female) students of Federal College of Education, Zaria who enrolled for an N.C.E Biology programme between 2007 / 08 – 2010 / 11 and graduated between 2009 / 10 – 2012 / 13 academic sessions respectively was used for the study.  The sample was the total number of the students that graduated from the programme at the end of their third year.  Data regarding students’ enrolment and graduation were obtained from the examination and academic record office of the College.  Analysis of the data using simple percentages and t – test revealed that more female enrolled for and graduated in Biology than their male counterparts.  There was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in gender achievement in Biology for four consecutive years of students’ graduations.  This verified the findings of other researchers, that there is indeed gender parity in science academic achievement.  Also concur with the Social Construction of Gender Difference Theories which argues that gender differences are socially constructed and influenced by factors such as stereotypical gender roles.  Some of the recommendations proffered are: similar studies should be conducted in other higher institutions of learning which will illuminate the gender issues in academic achievement.  The teaching of problem – solving using scientific techniques namely observation, measurement, formulating or testing hypotheses, experimentation, drawing valid conclusions must formed the springboard of our teaching and learning process.


Full Text:

PDF

References


Afuwape, M.O. and Oludipe, D.I. (2008). Gender Difference in Integrated Science Achievement among Pre-Service Teachers in Nigeria.Educational Research and Review. 2: 242-245.

Akpan.J .O. (2013). Gender Enrolment and Graduation Year Academic Achievement in Chemistry: Gender Equity for National Development. Proceedings of the First International Conference of School of Technology Education Held in Federal University of Technology Minna from 06th -09th October,2013.

Anaekwe, M. C. and Nnaka, C. V. (2006). Students’ Enrolment and Achievement in STM at Senior School Certificate Examinations: Implications for Availability and Utilization For Instructional Resources. A Paper Presented at the Proceedings of 47th Annual Conference of STAN held at River State University 13 – 15/09.

Asabere-Ameyaw, A. (2013). Science, Mathematics and Technology Education in the Context of Africa. A Keynote Address Presented at the First International Conference of School Of Technology Education. Proceedings of the 1st International Conference of School of Technology Education Federal University of Technology, Minna. King James Prints (Nigeria), xiii – xix.

Dawson, C. (2000). Upper Primary Boys’ and Girls’ Interest in Science: Have They Changed Since 1980 International Journal of Science Education, 22(6), 557-570.

Edeh, D.N. (2005). Science Education and Technology Development: The Nigerian Experience. In S.O. Oriafo, G.C. Edozie and D.N. Ezeh (Ed). Curriculum Issues in Contemporary Education Da – Sylva Influence. Benin City.

Ejifugha, A.U.andOgueri, E. (2011).Gender Equity in Science Teacher Education for sustainable Development. An Emerging Perspective: Proceedings of the First International Technology, Education and Environment Conference. African Society for Scientific Research (ASSR) Held at Federal College of Education (Technical), Omoku. Rivers state. 05th – 08th September, 2011.

Eze, C.U. (2007). Achieving Gender Equity in Science, Technology and Mathematics (STM) Education Through Cooperative Learning: Implications for Sustainable Development. A Paper Presented at the Proceedings of the 50th Anniversary Conference of Science Teachers’ Association of Nigeria (STAN) at Benue State University, 12 – 16/08 .

Freedberg, L. (2013). Enrolment in Teacher Education Programmes Plummets. Edsource.org//63661.

Harding, H. and Parker, L. (1995). Agent for Change: Policy and Practice towards a more Gender Inclusive Science Education. International Journal of Science Education, 17(14), 537 – 553.

Isyaku, K. (2002). Introduction in National Commission for Colleges of Education Minimum Standards for Nigerian Certificate in Education Teachers.

Jones, G; Howe, A. and Rua, M. (2000). Gender Differences in Students’ Experiences, Interest and Attitudes towards Science and Scientists. Science Education, 84, 180-192.

Maduabum, M.A. (2006). Strategies for Improving the Access of Girls and Women in Science Technology and Mathematics University Education in Nigeria.Ebonyi Journal of Science Education, 1(1): 11 – 21.

Odukoya, D. (1995). Challenges of Education in Africa.A Philosophical Perspective. Journal of Studies in Curriculum Region II Form I (1), 222. Lagos.

Ogunleye, B.O. and Babajide, V.F.T. (2011). Commitment to Science and Gender Determinants Of Students’ Achievement and Practical Skills in Physics Journal of Science Teachers Association of Nigeria.46 (1) 23 – 45. http:/ stanonline.org/journals/pdf/jskn. Retrieved 23/08/2012.

Okafor, E.A.(2006). The Challenges of Education in Nigeria. An Invited Paper Presented During The Matriculation Ceremony of Students of National Teachers’ Institute, Orlu.

Okeke, E.A.C. (1990). Gender, Science and Technology for Africa: A Challenge for Education. The 1990 Rama Mehta Lecture Radellife College.

Parker, L; Renni, L and Fraser, B. (1996). Gender, Science and Mathematics Shortening the Shadow. Dordrecht, The Netherlands: Kluwer.

Sharehu, A. (2009). Nigeria Teachers’ Institute Bemoans Declining Enrolment. THIS DAY News Paper 14/04/2009.


Refbacks

  • There are currently no refbacks.