Volume 10, Issue 1. January 2024

Preliminary Pages of Volume 10, Issue 1. January 2024

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Extent of Utilization of Learning Management System at Secondary Schools Level in Southeast Nigeria in the Post Covid-19 Era

Fadip Audu Nannim, Mabel Obianuju Uba, Festus A. Ugwu, Obute Obinna Herbert, Onyia Comfort Ngozi

Abstract
This study examined the extent of utilization of the Learning Management System (LMS) in learning Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) subjects at Secondary Schools level in Southeast Nigeria in the Post Covid-19 Era. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population for this study is made up of all Senior Secondary School (SSS) students taking STEAM subjects in Southeast Nigeria. A total of 2110 students participated in the study. A structured online questionnaire design using Google Forms was used as an instrument for data collection and was shared with SSS students from all five Southeast States of Nigeria. The instrument was validated by three experts. The collected data were analysed using percentages, mean and standard deviation. It was found that the available LMSs with subscriptions for learning STEAM subjects among Secondary Schools in Southeast Nigeria in the post-COVID-19 Era are: Google Classroom, Moodle, Microsoft Team, Canvas, Blackboard, and Coursework. The LMSs without subscriptions in Schools include Segue, Interact, Atutor, WebCT, Desire2learn, and KWL. Also, the extent of utilization of LMS for learning STEAM subjects among secondary school students in Southeast Nigeria in the post COVID-19 Era is High; while the challenges militating against the utilization of LMS for learning of STEAM subjects among secondary schools in Southeast Nigeria in the post-COVID-19 Era include: high cost of mobile data/internet subscription, inadequate training for STEAMS teachers; poor electricity supply; poor technical support for Student while using LMS in schools among others. It was recommended that workshops, seminars and conferences should be organized for students and teachers to share their experiences with their colleagues regularly.
Keywords: Utilization; Learning Management System; STEAM subjects; Post Covid-19 Era

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Development of Virtual Workshop Package for Electronic Practical in Technical Colleges, Nigeria

Hassan Yunusa Jamilu, Garba Shuaibu, Ali Idris, Suwaiba Said Ahmad, Murtala Haruna Harbau, Nura Sani Usman, Ibrahim Said Ahmad, and Samira Abdullahi Muhammad

Abstract
The study developed a Virtual Workshop Package (VWP) for Electronics Practical in Technical Colleges in the Six Geo- Political Zones, Nigeria involving a population of 138 subjects. Two research questions were answered. The instruments for data collection were the Virtual Workshop Functionality Questionnaire, Virtual Workshop Assessment Questionnaire (VWAQ), Virtual Workshop Usability Questionnaire. Hypertext Mark-up Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) were used for the user interface design, while Python (Django framework) was used for the logic and database in the development of the VWP. Findings revealed that the appropriate contents of a four- model VWP which are Domain Model involving the contents for Electronics Practical as well as the Student, Tutoring and User Interface Models were developed into a complete package. The VWP was found to have high ratings on functionality, validity and usability among the respondents. It was recommended among others that Workshops and Seminars should be organized by the various State Science and Technical Education Boards in Nigeria to create awareness among electronic teachers and students on the importance of the VWP.
Keywords: Virtual Workshop, Four-Models, Technical Colleges, Electronics Practical, Electronics Students and Electronics Teachers.

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Exploring the Impact of Concept Mapping and Non-Concept Mapping Instructional Strategies on Academic Achievement of Nigerian students in Basic Science

Mbonu-Adigwe, Bianca U.; Nwagbo, Chinwe Rose & Okonkwo, Ifebuche O.

Abstract
This study explores the impact of concept mapping instructional strategy on students academic achievement in basic science in Nigeria. Quasi-experimental research design was used in the study. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The population of the study was 2,437 junior secondary school two (JSS2), which comprised of 1,334 male and 1,103 female in public secondary schools in Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. The sample size was 80 JSSII students were selected using simple random sampling techniques. The instrument used in the study was Basic Science Achievement Test (BSAT) with a reliability estimate of 0.89 derived using K-R 20. The research questions were analysed using descriptive statistics while the null hypotheses were tested using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The result show that concept mapping is an effective instructional strategy for improving students academic achievement in basic science in Nigeria, with statistically significant improvement observed in students test scores after the intervention regardless of gender. The study recommends that concept mapping be incorporated into basic science instruction in Nigeria to enhance students understanding of scientific concepts.
Keywords: Academic achievement; Basic science; Concept mapping; Non-concept mapping; Instructional strategies

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Artificial Intelligence Tools of Personalized Learning and Intelligent Tutoring System as Correlates of Students Motivation in Chemistry

Nja, Cecilia Obi, Uwe, Uduak Edet & Nkereuwem, Victoria Inwang

Abstract
The study investigated personalized learning and intelligent tutoring system as correlates of students’ motivation in chemistry. Two hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. Survey research design was employed for the study. The instrument was “Artificial Intelligence Student Motivation Questionnaire” (AISMQ). A sample of 200 students was selected using a simple random sampling technique. Two hypotheses were tested using Pearson Correlation analysis at 0.05 level of significance. The findings reported that both, personalized learning and intelligent tutoring system was significant Hence, it was recommended among others that students be taught on how to use personalized learning and intelligent tutoring system.
Keywords; Artificial Intelligence, Intelligent Tutoring System, Personalized Learning, Students Motivation,

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Deficiencies in Elected Course Requirements and Change of Course in the University: Implications for Employability

Onuekwusi Chijioke, Onyeka, Joy, N. & Iwuanyanwu, Obianuju C.

Abstract
This study investigated the types of deficiencies in elected course requirements of 190 University entrants and the patterns of change to other courses. It was a case study achieved through documentary survey. Four research questions guided the study. Simple percentages were used in the analysis of data. Findings indicate that the major cause of deficiency was inability of University entrants to get up to a credit pass in relevant subjects (76.3%), followed by failure to sit for relevant subjects in qualifying examinations (20%) Furthermore, there was no discernable pattern of acceptance of change of courses. The paper therefore argues that the practice of sudden change of courses for entrants without adequate career guide could have serious implications for employability. It recommendation establishment of efficient and effective Guidance and Counselling units in Nigerian Universities and insistence that such entrants should receive remedial career guide prior to change of course.
Keywords: Requirements, Change of Course and Employability,

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Classroom Organization as Correlate of Students' Academic Achievement and Interest in Chemistry

Priscilla Dave-Ugwu O. & Eluke, Mmasichukwu MaryRose

Abstract
This study was carried out to investigate the relationship between classroom organization, students academic achievement and interest in chemistry using a Correlational research design. Two research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. The study was conducted in Nsukka Urban of Enugu State. 100 senior secondary two (SS II) Chemistry students made up the sample for the study. Three researcher developed instruments, Chemistry Achievement Test (CAT), Classroom organization Questionnaire (COQ), and Chemistry Students Interest Inventory (CSII) was employed to collect the data. Research question were answered using Regression analysis while the null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The results of the study showed that there is a positive and high significant relationship with 97% variation between classroom organization and students academic achievement in chemistry, and there is also a positive, high and significant relationship between Classroom Organisation and interest of senior secondary school students in chemistry. Based on the findings,recommendations were made.
Keywords: Classroom Organization, Chemistry, Achievement and Interest

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Evaluation of the Implementation of Objectives of the Senior Secondary School Mathematics Curriculum in Awgu Education Zone, Enugu State

Azor Francisca Ukama & Ene Catherine

Abstract
This study evaluated the implementation of the objectives of mathematics curriculum in senior secondary schools in Awgu Education Zone of Enugu State. An evaluation research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised 16,190 students that sat for WASSCE from 2016-2020, the 60 mathematics teachers in 54 public secondary schools in the area. A sample of 31 mathematics teachers (16 urban and 15 rural) was drawn using a simple random sampling technique. Evaluation of the Implementation of Mathematics Curriculum Teachers` Questionnaire (EIMTQ) was used for data collection. Frequency count, percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions while t-test and chi-square were used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The results showed that the extent to which the objectives of mathematics curriculum are implemented by urban and rural school teachers is high and significant in favour of urban school mathematics teachers. The results showed that lack of supervision, poor funding, inadequate instructional facilities, among others are the challenges of implementing mathematics curriculum in Awgu education zone. Based on these findings, the study recommended among others that school authorities must ensure that they recruit only competent and professionally qualified teachers in order to promote sound instructional delivery and ease the process of implementing the curriculum objectives.
Keywords: Mathematics; Evaluation; Achievement; Curriculum; Objectives; Awgu.

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Digital Citizenship and Ethics in Teacher Education

Njoku Uchenna Gertrude, Ogbodo Benedicta Chege & Njoku Chizoba Scholarstica

Abstract
The way that technology is evolving is significant to everyone. Since more and more individuals in our society are using digital technology, it is crucial that we understand our obligations to manage our digital lives by using the internet and digital gadgets sensibly and effectively. Teaching kids about digital citizenship and ethics fosters critical thinking, responsible participation, and wellbeing in the digital world—much as we advocate for morality and ethics in our everyday lives. In order to help students and the next generation become better stewards of technology, this study use the educational theory of global citizenship and content analysis as the method use to examine literature in the areas of digital ethics and teacher education. The finding indicated that cultivating responsible, attentive, and professional behaviors in digital education and ethics for teachers is an enduring ability.
Keyword: Digital citizenship, Ethics in teacher education and the Impact of Digital citizenship on ethics in teacher education.

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The Nexus Between Entrepreneurship Education and Entrepreneurial Intention: Employment Among Physical and Health Education Students in Lagos State

Lafiaji-Okuneye, B.B; Taiwo A.B; Adande A.D

Abstract
This study examined the link between entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention among physical and health education (PHE) students in Lagos State University Ojo. The population comprises 212 final-year PHE students with a sample of 45 using a purposive sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient and regression analysis. Results revealed that a significant relationship F(1,40) =6.708, p = .013 exists between entrepreneurship education and the entrepreneurial intention of PHE students. Also, there is a positive correlation r(45) = .20, p < .001) between entrepreneurial skills acquired and poverty alleviation among the students. Furthermore, the result revealed that the students whose parents are self-employed have higher entrepreneurial intentions in comparison with those whose parents are not self-employed. This study therefore concludes that entrepreneurship education will equip the students with the skills to be self-employed in order to reduce the rate of unemployment in the country.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship education, entrepreneurial intention, Entrepreneurial Skills, Physical and Health Education, Employment rate

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Impact of Data-Driven Decision Making in Secondary Schools' Administration in Jema'a Local Government Area of Kaduna State

Onu Eucharia Amaka, Iliya Dedan & Ige Comfort Mosunmola

Abstract
The study investigated the impact of data-driven decision-making in secondary school administration in Jema’a Local Government Area, Kaduna state. Three objectives and three research questions guided the study. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised 306 principals and teachers in six selected secondary in the local government. A sample size of 150 was drawn from the six schools using a simple random sampling technique. The instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire titled “Data-Driven Decision Making on Secondary School Administration Questionnaire (DDDMSSAQ). The instrument was validated and internal consistency reliability was carried out using Cronbach Alpha which yielded an index of 0.82. Mean and standard Deviation were used to answer the research questions. The findings revealed among other things that, there are some factors influencing the adoption of data-driven decision-making in education such as the availability of data, and government policies. The findings also revealed that DDDM has a significant impact in secondary school in that it improved students’ achievement, lead to efficient resource allocation and budgeting among others. The challenges of DDDM include budget constraints and limited technical skills. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the government should emphasize the importance of providing administrators with adequate training in interpreting and utilizing data effectively in Jema’a Local Government Area.
Keywords: Data-driven Decision Making, Administration, Secondary School

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Development and Validation of Motivational Instrument for Assessing Biology Students' Learning in Senior Secondary Schools in Idah Education Zone of Kogi State, Nigeria

Offor, Mosesa, Ikeh, E. Francis, Muhammed, S. Abubakara, Nahanga, T. Peter,

Abstract
Students' academic performance in biology with one of the science disciplines taught in secondary schools in Nigeria, has been severely hindered. The lack of instruments for determining students motivation to learn biology is one of the roots of the issue. Therefore, it is necessary to develop and validate an instrument that might be used widely to assess students motivation levels for learning biology in Nigerian secondary schools. A sample of 281 senior secondary school students was chosen to complete the SMLBS (Students Motivation Learning Biology Scale) using Taro Yamane’s Formula. The data were analyzed using factor analysis, mean and standard deviation, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results showed that 43 out of 63 items were factorially pure. One item was factorially complex, whereas 19 items were factorially impure. However, there was no discernible difference between class level and the mean evaluations of students enthusiasm to learn biology as determined by SMLBS. By examining the elements affecting motivation and how they affect student learning, the current study advances the body of knowledge on motivation. The implications include that since learning and motivation have been discovered to be interrelated, it enables biology teachers to pinpoint the elements that spur students to pursue the Subject. The main flaw was that the factor analysis model presupposed that all data to be used were error-free, but in reality, data were subject to bias in selection, sampling, and measurement, as well as disturbances brought on by minute factors that the researchers had not fully anticipated. The researchers acknowledged the possibility of a small inaccuracy as a result of not using error-free data.
Keywords: Development, Learning, Motivation, Students, Validation

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Assessment of Entrepreneurship Skills for the Establishment of Small and Medium Scale Businesses: Gender Perspectives of Science, Technical and Vocational Schools' Teachers in Enugu State

Elejere, Ugochukwu Christian, Mojekwu, Okechukwu Emmanuel, Ogbonna, Ikechukwu Jerry, Ugwuanyi, Maximum Chukwuma, Obodo, Raphael Maduka, Eze, Amos Ugochukwu, Ede, Amos Ejike & Diogu, Kelechi Emmanuel

Abstract
The study appraised how well female and male technical and vocational school students in Enugu State, Nigeria, acquired the entrepreneurship skills needed for the establishment of small and medium-scale businesses. Two research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. A descriptive survey design was used. 152 female and male technical and vocational school teachers in Nsukka and Obollo Educational Zone constituted the population, and a sample of 110 respondents. Three professionals (Business Education & Measurement and Evaluation Lecturers) validated developed instrument for data collection tagged “Questionnaire for Assessment of Entrepreneurship Skill (QAES)”. The instrument's reliability was 0.77. The mean, standard deviation, and t-test with a 0.05 level of significance were used to analyze the study's data. Finding revealed that there was gender variance in the technical and vocational school teachers mean opinions on the business opportunity skills in favour of the females. Nevertheless, there was no gender variance in the technical and vocational school teachers mean opinions on the creativity skills. According to the findings, we recommended retraining of technical and vocational school teachers on the use of business opportunity skills and creativity skills in their instruction delivery to ensure students’ acquisition of requisite skills for self-employment.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship Education, Entrepreneurship Skills, Small and Medium Scale Business.

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Role of Physics Education in a Security Distressed Nation

Yakubu Peter Abuh & Akubor Friday

Abstract
The study investigated the role of Physics Education in a security-distressed nation. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted descriptive survey design. The population comprised 430 students of Kogi State Collage of education Ankpa. The entire population was used for the study. The Instrument tagged students perception on the role of physics Education in overcoming security challenges (SPRPEOSC), validated by 3 Experts in physics and measurement and evaluation, was used for data Collection. The reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach Alpha formula with overall index of 0.85. Data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation and Z-test statistics. The study found that physics Education can effectively be used to overcome security challenges in Nigeria. Based on the findings, the researchers recommended that physics education should be given priority in the national education policy so as to promote national security to life and properties of Nigerians among others. Keywords:
Physics Education, Security and Distressed Nation

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Demographic Variables of Parent as Determinant of Practices of Nutritional Needs of Primary Schools Pupils in North Central, Nigeria

Achagh Wilfred Iorfa

Abstract
The study investigates the certain demographic variables of parent as determinant of practices of nutritional needs of primary schools pupils in North central, Nigeria. To achieve the stated objective, three (3) research questions and three (3) corresponding null hypotheses guided the study. Expo facto research design was used for the study. The population of the comprises of seven thousand eight hundred and fifty three (7,853) parents of primary school pupils in both public and private schools who are Parents’ Teachers Association (PTA) members. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 340 respondents from six primary schools in North central, Nigeria. Questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. The reliability of the instrument was estimated using Cronbach’s Alpha and a reliability Coefficient of 0.84 was obtained which was considered good enough. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer all the research questions, while t-test statistics were used to test all the null hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study among others showed that; parents’ level of education, income and marital status significantly influence the nutritional needs of preschoolers. Based on the findings, it was concluded that parents’ level of education, income and marital status are necessary for the nutritional needs of preschoolers and recommendations were made.
Keywords: Nutrition, needs, parent, preschoolers

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Religious Education as a Catalyst for the Promotion of Peace and Harmony in Secondary Schools in North Central Region of Nigeria

Appolonia Fidelis Egwu

Abstract
The North Central region is known for its diverse religious and cultural landscape, has faced challenges related to inter-religious tensions and conflicts in educational institutions. The North Central region of Nigeria is home to a multitude of religious and cultural groups. Understanding and respecting this diversity is crucial for promoting peaceful coexistence. This study therefore, examine the role of religious education in promoting peace and harmony in secondary schools within the North Central Region of Nigeria. This study employs a descriptive survey design. The research involved 134,987 students and teachers from six selected schools in Niger and Plateau states. The study utilized simple random sampling and questionnaire-based data collection. Descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation was used to answer all the research questions. Findings from the analysis indicate a generally positive perception of religious education in addressing religious tensions, fostering understanding, and tolerance. The study affirms that religious education contributes to diversity appreciation, peaceful coexistence, and interfaith dialogue. Challenges identified include insufficient resources, lack of educator training, and curriculum gaps. The analysis suggests a potential positive influence of religious education on students' attitudes toward peace. Recommendations include allocating sufficient resources, organizing training for educators, periodic curriculum reviews, and community engagement initiatives to foster a comprehensive approach to promoting peace and harmony.
Keywords: Religious Education, Promotion of Peace and Harmony, Secondary School, North Central Region, Nigeria

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Influence of Parental Variables on the Cognitive Readiness of Preschoolers in North Central, Nigeria

Milcah Samson Tyoden

Abstract
This study examined the influence of parental variables on the cognitive readiness of preschoolers in North Central, Nigeria. Certainly, three (3) specific purposes, three (3) research questions and three (3) corresponding null hypotheses guided the study. A descriptive survey design was used for the study. The population of this study consists of eight thousand four hundred (8,400) parents of preschoolers in both public and private schools. Multistage sampling techniques was used to select three hundred (300) respondents from six schools in three states in North Central, Nigeria. Questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection. The reliability of the instrument was estimated using Cronbach’s Alpha and the reliability Coefficient of 0.84 was obtained. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS. Mean and Standard Deviation were used to answer all the research questions, while t-test statistics were used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study among others showed that: there was a significant influence of parents’ educational attainment and income on the cognitive readiness of preschoolers whereas, parents’ age does not. Based on the findings, it was concluded that parents’ educational attainment and income play significant roles in the cognitive readiness of preschoolers and recommendations were made.
Keywords: Parental Variables, Cognitive, Readiness, Preschoolers, North central, Nigeria.

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Challenges Arising from the Scarcity of History Teachers in Secondary Schools in the North Central Zone of Nigeria

Abbas Bello Jafar

Abstract
The scarcity of history teachers in secondary schools in the North central zone of Nigeria presents a significant challenges to the education system. This scarcity results in a lack of qualified educators to impart historical knowledge and skills to students, potentially leading to a decline in historical understanding and appreciation. As a result, this study addresses the challenges arising from the scarcity of history teachers in secondary schools in the North Central Zone of Nigeria. The research utilized a descriptive survey design, targeting a total population of 157,602, consisting of 92,361 students and teachers in Nassarawa state and 65,241 in Niger state. Employing simple random sampling, 720 participants were chosen from six secondary schools across both states. The primary instrument for data collection was a questionnaire. Descriptive statistical method was used. The findings highlight a unanimous agreement among students and teachers on the shortage of qualified history teachers in the North Central zone, aligning with existing literature. It also provide consensus on the adverse effects of this scarcity on historical education, student performance, and interest in history. The findings identified the root causes of the scarcity of history teachers which include inadequate incentives, insufficient training programs, and limited government support, corroborating existing literature. Based on the findings, recommendations are made to address these challenges comprehensively. These include implementing targeted teacher training programs, enhancing remuneration packages, government support in recruitment and retention, promoting the importance of history education, fostering collaborations between teachers and educational institutions, and establishing continuous professional development opportunities for history teachers. These recommendations aim to mitigate the scarcity of history teachers and improve the quality of historical education in the North Central Zone of Nigeria.
Keywords: Scarcity, History Teachers, Secondary Schools, North Central Zone, Nigeria

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Evaluation of Environmental Sanitation Practices in the North Central Zone of Nigeria

Stephen Maren

Abstract
Environmental sanitation is a critical aspect of public health and overall well-being, with significant implications for disease prevention and environmental sustainability. The waste collection services in urban areas are reasonably efficient, but rural areas lack adequate coverage. This study employs a descriptive survey design to offer an overview of the assessment of environmental sanitation practices in the North Central Zone of Nigeria. Its objective is to evaluate current practices and pinpoint areas requiring improvement. For the research, primary data sources were utilized. The population of the study comprised of all household residents, cleaning contractors, and Environmental Protection Board (EPB) staff across the region. Systematic random sampling was employed to select wards in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja and Plateau states. Data collection for this study involved the use of a questionnaire. The collected data underwent analysis using descriptive statistical method in the study. The findings reveal positive perceptions about residents awareness about waste disposal facilities, community involvement, and government commitment. The finding also shows of regular monitoring of environmental laws, but concerns about penalties and community awareness. The paper recommended that the government should enhance commitment to enforcing environmental sanitation laws through increased monitoring and transparent penalties and that environmental agencies should conduct awareness campaigns to educate people about the consequences of poor environmental sanitation on health, the environment, and the economy.
Keywords: Environmental, Sanitation, Practices North Central Zone, Nigeria

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Status of French Language Teachers' Professional Development and Students' Active Engagement in Secondary Schools in the North Central Zone of Nigeria

Ibrahim Ya'u

Abstract
In Nigeria unlike North Central zone, French language teachers are faced with multifaceted challenges related to a lack of teaching materials, textbooks, and technology. Many schools struggle to find educators with proper language proficiency and teaching qualifications. Also, enrollments in French language classes are generally low, indicating a lack of interest among students. Most teachers in North Central expressed a desire for more opportunities for professional development and training in teaching methodologies and language proficiency. Therefore, this study investigates the status of French language teachers' professional development and students’ active engagement in secondary schools in the North Central zone of Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed for the study. The population of the study comprised 120,644 students and teachers in secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau states respectively. The study employed stratified random sampling techniques to select 550 participants for the study. The data collection process was achieved through the use of questionnaires. Descriptive statistics was employed for the study. The findings reveal diverse perspectives among French language teachers on professional development, emphasizing the significance of training and workshops while highlighting dissatisfaction with institutional support. Challenges identified include insufficient funding, limited access to teaching materials, inadequate school administration support, and a lack of recognition. Shortcomings in teaching resources for French language instruction were observed, aligning with concerns about students' proficiency levels. However, positive perceptions were noted regarding the effectiveness of teaching methods and strategies. The discussion aligns with existing literature, emphasizing the importance of active engagement for students' proficiency and interest in the French language. Recommendations include addressing teacher dissatisfaction with professional support, tackling funding and resource challenges, and improving the availability of textbooks and infrastructure. Additionally, efforts should focus on enhancing students' proficiency through curriculum review, support mechanisms, and innovative teaching strategies.
Keywords: French Language, Teacher Professional Development, Active Engagement

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Teaching Methods, Preschool Children Psychomotor and Cognitive Development in North Central Region of Nigeria

Helen Arinola Ashefor

Abstract
This research study examines the teaching methods, psychomotor and cognitive development of preschool children in the North Central region of Nigeria. The study recognizes the critical importance of early childhood education and seeks to address various challenges and questions surrounding teaching methods and their impact on young learners. The research utilized an experimental design and focused on the preschool children and teachers within the educational zones of Kwara, Kogi, and Benue in the North Central region of Nigeria as the study population. The sample for this study comprised 288 respondents which included 18 teachers and 270 nursery two children in public and private preschools in the study area using multistage sampling technique. Initially, a Proportionate sampling technique was employed to choose 8 public and 10 private pre-schools. The data collection instrument utilized in the study was a questionnaire. Subsequently, the collected data underwent analysis through descriptive statistics. The results revealed that the cooperative method, inquiry method and questioning method were the most commonly used methods by preschool teachers in the study areas with a mean score of 2.45. Also, the level of preschool children's psychomotor development was on average (2.32), and their cognitive development was high (2.51). The study concluded that teaching methods had a positive influence on preschool children's psychomotor and cognitive development skills in the North Central region of Nigeria. Therefore, it was recommended that preschool teachers should strengthen their efforts on the use of cooperative methods, inquiry methods and questioning methods to enhance preschool children’s psychomotor and cognitive development in the area under study.
Keywords: Teaching Methods, Psychomotor Development, Cognitive Development, Preschool Children

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