Volume 10, Issue 5. May 2024

Preliminary Pages of Volume 10, Issue 5. May 2024

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Enhancing Secondary School Students' Achievement of Chemical Bonding Concepts in Chemistry Using Selvaratnam-Frazer and Polya's Problem-solving Models

Akpan, Mary Uwem, Eden, Mabel Ini-Ibehe & Ekong, Anwangaobong Mfon

Abstract
This study investigated the effects of Selvaratnam-Frazer and Polya's Problem-solving Models on secondary school students' achievement in chemical bonding. The design of the study was a quasi-experimental research design with a population of 2500 SS1 Chemistry students in public schools. The sample comprised of 165 SS I Chemistry students from four intact classes selected by sample random sampling technique. The instrument used for data collection was Chemistry Achievement Test (CAT) with reliability index of 0.78 using Pearson Product Moment Correction. The data obtained was analysed using descriptive statistics and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). The result showed that there was no significant difference in the academic achievement of students taught using Selvaratnam-Frazer and Polya's Problem-solving Models. There was also no significant influence of gender on students' academic achievement. It was recommended among others that Chemistry teachers should make effective use of Selvaratnam-Frazer and Polya's Problem- solving Models for teaching.
Keywords: Academic achievement, Gender, Polya's Problem-solving Model and Selvaratnam-Frazer Model

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Pupils' Achievement on Perimeter and Area of Two-Dimensional Shapes in Primary School Mathematics: The Use of Counting and Mathematical Formula Approaches

Nwoye, Mercy Ngozi, Ani, Patience Chinedu, Orngu, Aondohemba Godwin & Madu, Gloria Chinenye

Abstract
This study examined Pupils Achievement in Two-Dimensional Shapes in Primary School Mathematics: The Use of Counting and Mathematical Formula Approaches. The study adopted quasi-experimental design specifically pretest posttest nonequivalent group. Three research questions and three hypotheses guided the study. Sample size of 95 pupils was used for the study. Achievement Test on 2-D shapes (AT2D) was validated and used for data collection. It's Reliability coefficient was 0.75. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer research questions. ANCOVA was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05. The findings of the study showed that pupils' taught perimeter and area of 2-D shapes using counting approach had higher achievement than those taught using mathematical formula and no significant difference in the mean achievement of male and female pupils. It was recommended among others that primary school teachers should use counting teaching approach in teaching of perimeter and area of 2-D shapes.
Keywords: Counting teaching approach, mathematical Formula approach, Primary school mathematics, poor Achievement, two-dimensional shapes.

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Effect of Jigsaw Instructional Method on Secondary School Students Academic Achievement and Retention in Biology in Calabar Education Zone, Nigeria

Anari, Mary Ideba, Aribo Bessie Ekpe, Imong, Ann Obela & Ukwetang, Bassey John

Abstract
The study examined the Effect of Jigsaw Instructional method on Secondary School students' Academic Achievement and retention in biology in Calabar Education Zone. It adopted a quasi- experimental non randomized pre-test, post-test control group design with a sample size of 260 SSI students. Two research questions and hypotheses guided the study, the research instrument was a researcher made achievement test with a reliability index of 0.88 using split-half reliability estimate. The data was analyse using descriptive and ANCOVA statistics at 0.05 level of significance. The result indicated that there was a significant difference in the mean achievement and retention score of students taught using Jigsaw, and lecture strategy in favour of students taught using Jigsaw strategy. Students in the treatment group did better than the control group. It was recommended that teachers should use Jigsaw instructional strategy teaching scientific concept and other challenging and complex ideas in the subject.
Keywords: Academic achievement, Biology, Jigsaw strategy, Retention

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Awareness and Usage of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) Platforms among Educational Technology Undergraduate Students in University of Calabar

Akire, Kyrian Ukeh, Olasunkanmi, Israel Abayomi & Oyekanmi, A. Olaniyi

Abstract
The use of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) platforms is gaining prominence among students especially, the undergraduates. However, there is dearth of literature and empirical evidence on educational technology students' awareness and use of MOOCs platforms for learning in federal universities in Nigeria. This study, therefore, investigated awareness and usage of MOOCs platforms among educational technology undergraduates of University of Calabar. Two research questions were posed and translated into two research hypotheses. The study employed the non-experimental design of survey research type. The sample consisted 400 students, and it used a thirty-nine item questionnaire titled; Awareness and Usage of MOOCs Platforms among Educational Technology Undergraduates Questionnaire' (AUPEDUSQ), reliability coefficient r=0.8 and r=0.7 for awareness and usage of MOOCs scales, respectively. Data collected were analyzed using percentages, Mean and independent t-test. Findings revealed that students were aware of MOOCs platforms; and there was no significant difference between male and female students in their awareness of MOOCs Platforms. It was recommended that students should use MOOCs platforms to enhance their studies. The study concluded that while male teachers are more aware of MOOCs platforms than females, gender had no significant effect on awareness of MOOCs platforms among educational technology students. However, the use of MOOCs platforms to study both educational technology courses and other courses is not statistically significant. Hence students need to be encouraged to use MOOCs platforms.
Keywords: Awareness, educational, MOOCs, technology, usage, and undergraduates.

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Impact of metacognitive awareness and self-efficacy on academic performance of Biology students in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State

Ojo, F. T., Ogbonnaya, U. N., Rotimi, P. I., Odukoya, O. M. and Hassan, H. O.

Abstract
This study examined the impact of metacognition and self-efficacy on academic performance of students offering Biology. The research employed a correlational survey design. The population consisted of all senior secondary school students offering biology in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State. 180 SS2 students from six public secondary schools in Ifo LGA made up the sample. An adapted questionnaire by Schraw and Dennison (1994) on metacognitive awareness and self-efficacy scale by Gaumer Erickson and Noonan (2016) were used. We used descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the gathered data. High levels of self-efficacy and metacognitive awareness were found in SS2 biology students. There was significant relationship between metacognitive awareness and self-efficacy, metacognitive awareness and self-efficacy had significant effect on the academic performance of the students. It was recommended that educators should organize seminars for the students as this will enhance their self- efficacy and strengthen metacognitive skills.
Key words: Biology, Metacognitive awareness, Self-efficacy, Academic performance

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Culturally Responsive Teaching: Exploring the Effect of Ethno-Chemistry on Students Interest and Academic Achievement in Odukpani and Akampa Local Government Area, Nigeria

Anari, Mary Ideba, Neji, Hope Amba, Agiande Innocent Undie, Aribo Bessie Ekpe & Ukwetang, Bassey John

Abstract
The research investigated the impact of ethno-chemistry on student's interest and academic achievement in Odukpani and Akampa local Government Areas, Nigeria. Quasi-experimental pre-test post-test research method was used. two research questions and hypotheses guided the study. The study population comprised of 1,594 senior secondary two chemistry students and a sample size of 124 learners was chosen from the population utilizing simple random technique. The instrument for gathering data was a researcher made chemistry achievement test (CAT) having reliability index of 0.72 using kuder Richardson R-21 and student interest questionnaire (SIQ) with reliability index of 0.89 using Cronbach alpha reliability estimate. Data received was analysed with descriptive and ANCOVA statistics. The result indicated a statistically significant difference in mean achievement and interest scores of student taught chemistry with ethno-chemistry approach group having a higher mean gain score than those taught with the conventional approach. It is recommended that science instructors explore integrating ethno-science approach as a means enhancing academic achievement and interest in science.
Keywords: Ethno-chemistry, achievement, interest, culturally responsive teaching

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Utilization of Photoshop Images in Steam Education: The Perspectives of Rivers State Teachers

Awajiokinor Ekrika Mbaba

Abstract
This study examined the perspective of teachers on utilization of Photoshop images in STEAM education in Rivers State. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. Descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study. The population of the study was made up of 5,018 public school teachers in Rivers State. Quarter and purposive sampling was used to sample 358 teachers made up of 165 male and 193 female, 185 from urban schools while 173 were from rural schools. Self-developed questionnaire tagged Teachers' Utilization of Photoshop Image Inventory (TUPI) was used for data collection. The instrument was given face validation by two experts of Educational Technology and Measurement and Evaluation from Rivers State University and a reliability index of 0.77 was obtained using Kuder Richardson Formula (KR-21). Descriptive statistics were used to answer the questions while t-test was used to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed that teachers derive several benefits using Photoshop in lesson delivery. Therefore, the researcher recommends the training and retraining of teachers on Photoshop skills to enhanced teachers' skill in Photoshop.
Keywords: Photoshop, Steam education, Teachers Perceptions, Utilization

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Effect of Flipped Teaching Strategy on Students' Academic Achievement in Electronics in Nigeria Certificate in Education (Technical) Awarding Institutions in Plateau State

Ebute Ojonugwa Michael, A. S Bappah, S. S. Sara & Nimmyel Gwakzing Danboyi

Abstract
The study on the “Effect of flipped teaching strategy on academic achievement in electronics in Nigerian Certificate in Education (Technical) awarding institutions in Plateau State” was intended to determine if flipped teaching strategy would increase the academic achievement of Electronics students. The study adopted quasi-experimental design which employed the pretest and post-test non-equivalent control groups design which comprised of an experimental group. Five research questions and four hypotheses were raised and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The instrument used for data collection was Electronics Achievement Test (EAT). EAT was subjected to both face and content validation. The Spearman-Brown formula was used by the researcher to get a reliability coefficient of 0.75 which was used for data collection. Data for the research work was analyzed using Mean and standard deviation. The findings of the study reveals that; there was no significant difference between the pre-test mean achievement score of electronics students taught using flipped teaching strategy and those taught using conventional lecture method, there is significant difference between the mean achievement score of electronics students taught using flipped teaching strategy and those taught using conventional lecture method, there was significant difference in the mean achievement score between the Pre-test and Post-test score of the electronics students taught using flipped teaching strategy. The study concluded that flipped teaching strategy improves students' performance generally. This write-up contains summary, conclusions, recommendations, implication of the study, limitation of the study and suggestions for further study.
Key words: Flipped teaching strategy, Conventional lecture method, Academic achievement

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Comparing Dimensionality and Local Independence Parameters of Lagos State Unified Mock and West African Senior School Certificate Examinations in Biology

Olufemi Abiodun Ajayi, Risikat Iyabode Salam & Olawale Yussuf Saka

Abstract
This study compared the Lagos State Unified Mock and West African Senior School Certificate Examinations in Biology in terms of dimensionality and local independence. Descriptive research design and multistage sampling procedure were adopted. The six (6) Lagos Education Districts were enumerated, with two local government areas (LGA) selected from each district and five (5) schools selected from each LGA. The instruments adopted were the 2021 LSUME and WASSCE multiple-choice biology. The sample comprised 2,400 SSS 3 students. Data were subjected to Stout's Test of Essential Unidimensionality and Yen Q3 statistics. The results showed that LSUME and WASSCE Biology fulfilled unidimensionality (DETECT< 0.20, ASSI< 0.25, RATIO < 0.36) and local independence assumptions (residual correlation < 0.20). The authors concluded that LSUME and WASSCE Biology had comparable item parameter estimates. It is recommended that examination bodies and teachers should devote sufficient efforts to item development and adopt item response theory in students' cognitive assessment.
Keywords: Item local independence, Item response theory, Uni-dimensionality, Biology

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Quality Item Generation through Item Analysis: Exploring SPSS

Etobro, A. Benjamin & Taiwo, Olufunmi

Abstract
The study assessed the development of items with good qualities adopting item analysis to determine level of difficulty and discrimination index of items. The study was guided by two research questions. Fifty items were administered to 50 undergraduates in their third year. Item analysis was carried out on the responses. Findings showed that 16% of the entire test had difficulty index of less than 0.2. Furthermore, 18% of the items had a difficulty index of 0.20-0.39. This implies that 18% of the items were difficult. Twenty-three items (46%) were moderately easy (0.60-0.79). The item discrimination indices reveal that 36%of the items had discrimination level of 0.41 to 0.70; 28% had discrimination level of 0.21 to 0.40; 16% of the items had discrimination index between 0.00 and 0.20 indicating that they are poor items. In conclusion, the difficulty and discrimination powers of most of the test items were valid and reliable.
Key Words: item generation, item analysis, item discrimination, difficulty index

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Effect of Two Modes of Flipped Classroom on Students' Interest in Biology in Colleges of Education in South-East, Nigeria

Ezeiruaku, Melvina Ngozi, F. A. Okwo, T. Ofoegbu, & U. Asogwa

Abstract
Interest is an educational concept that determines some aspects of students' affective domain which is very important in the teaching and learning process. It has been hypothesized that the use of child-centered approach will stimulate students 'interest in any learning situation. flipped classroom strategy is one of such child-centered approaches. This study was therefore undertaken to explore the use of standard inverted and group-based flipped classroom in stimulating the interest of students to learn Biology. Three research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study. The design of the study was quasi-experimental factorial design, specifically, the design was 2x2 pretest-posttest, non-equivalent factorial research design. The sample for this study consists of 147 Biology students of two colleges of education in South-East, Nigeria. Biology Interest Scale (BIS) was used as instrument for data collection. Two experts from Biology unit and one from measurement and evaluation unit, department of science education, University of Nigeria Nsukka validated the instrument. The Interest scale has an internal consistency reliability of 0. 84 established using Cronbach alpha. Mean and standard deviations were used to analyze the data to provide answers for the research questions. The hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). Result of the study showed that the use of standard inverted and group-based flipped classroom was both effective in enhancing students' interest in Biology. The increase in interest score is not gender dependent as there is no significant difference in the mean interest of male and female students in Biology, F (1, 138) = .832. P < .363. The educational implications of the findings were highlighted and the recommendations proffered which includes: In-service training, seminars, workshops and conferences should be organized by school administrators in colleges of education and other tertiary institutions to train Biology teachers on the use of innovative pedagogical strategies like standard inverted and group-based flipped classroom to facilitate students' involvement and interest in Biology.
Keywords: Biology, Biology Education, student centered approach, standard inverted flipped classroom, group-based flipped classroom, interest and gender

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Awareness and Utilization of Open Educational Resources Among Undergraduate Students in English Language in Universities in Enugu State

Raphael, Faithful Onyedikachi, Euphemia, Chisom, Aleke, Paul Sunday, Henry Chinedu Okeke & Moses Eteng Obla

Abstract
The study examined the awareness and utilization of open educational resources among undergraduates in universities in Enugu State. Four research questions guided the study using descriptive survey design. The population of this study comprised all 860 English language 300 level undergraduates in Enugu State. The sample size comprises of 273 undergraduates drawn from three universities in Enugu state using purposive sampling technique. Reliability estimate of 0.94 was obtained using Crompach Alpha for the instrument titled: Awareness and Utilization of OER among undergraduates Questionnaire. Data collection was through questionnaire. The findings of the study revealed that the level of awareness of the existence of OER was at a high level. The extent to which undergraduates utilize OER was discovered to be low. However, slow internet load speed, inadequate computer access among others is the challenges encountered among undergraduates. The study recommended that there is need for the provision of the latest ICT infrastructure that will pave way for easy utilization of OER among undergraduates.
Key Words: Awareness, English language, OER, ICT, Undergraduate students, University, Utilization.

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Effect of Blended Learning Instructional Strategy on Students' Retention in Basic Science and Technology in Upper Basic Schools in Zone A Benue State, Nigeria

Ityobee Seember, Jirgba Mbakohol Christy, Janet Ngunan Adzape

Abstract
The study investigated the effect of blended learning instructional strategy on students' retention in Basic Science and Technology in Zone A, Benue State, Nigeria. The study adopted quasi-experimental research design. The population was 3041 Basic eight students from 85 schools. A sample of 361 students (180 males and 181 females) from 14 schools. The instrument used for data collection was Basic Science and Technology Retention Test (BSTRT). Mean and standard deviation was used to answer research questions while ANCOVA was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings showed that blended learning significantly improved retention scores compared to traditional methods, favoring the experimental group, while retention scores did not differ significantly between male and female students taught using blended learning. Based on the study's findings, it was recommended that curriculum developers and educators adopt the blended learning instructional strategy, which integrates digital and interactive components with traditional teaching methods, to enhance knowledge retention in Basic Science and Technology.
Keywords: ICT, Blended learning, Gender, Retention, Basic Science and Technology

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Exploring the State of Mathematics Curriculum Implementation in Attainment of 21st Century Skills among Students in Obollo-Afor Education Zone of Enugu State

Ukwueze, Timothy Chinedu, Odugu, Anulika Ethel & Jude Uchenna Idoko

Abstract
The research explores the state of mathematics curriculum implementation in attainment of 21st century skills among students in Obollo-Afor education zone of Enugu State. One Research question and hypothesis guided the work. Descriptive survey design was employed in the work. Five thousand three hundred and twenty, four (5, 324) Senior Secondary School three students' constituted the populations. The instrument for data collection was the use of questionnaire that consists of 34 items, and was validated by expert in the faculty of education University of Nigeria, Nsukka. To ensure the reliability of the instrument, it was trial tested and yielded an index of 0.82, established using Cronbach's Alpha reliability coefficient. The data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research question and independent t-test was used to test the null hypothesis at .05 level of significance. The results revealed that there was no significant difference in the mean rating scores of male and female students on the attainment of the 21st century skills among students as result of the implementation of mathematics curriculum in usage now. Based on the findings, it was recommended that teachers should use all the teaching and learning activities that would enhanced the acquisitions of 21st century skills among learners.
Keywords: Acquisition, Attainment, Mathematics Curriculum, Mathematics Instruction, 21st Century Skills, Implementation

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Assessment of Gender-Based Item Functioning of Enugu State Uniform Promotion Examination in Mathematics Multiple Choice Questions Nnaji, Anayo David & Madu, Barnabas Chidi

Nnaji, Anayo David & Madu, Barnabas Chidi

Abstract
The study investigated gender-based DIF of Enugu State Uniform Promotion Examination Mathematics MCQ. Employing an ex-post facto research design, a sample size of 1008 SS2 students was drawn from the population of 12,595 SS2 students through multistage sampling procedure. The instrument for data collection was an adopted Enugu State Uniform Promotion Examination Mathematics multiple choice questions (ESUPEMCQ), which was face validated by three experts. The internal consistency of the ESUPEMCQ was determined as 0.89 using Kuder- Richardson 20 formula. Mantel-Haenszel statistics, percentages and Chi-square statistics were used for data analysis. The findings show that eight items indicative of 20% of the 40 items in the ESUPE significantly functioned differentially with respect to gender, and 50% of the items in the instrument favoured the male and female students respectively. The study concluded that some of the items in the Enugu State Uniform Promotion Examination Mathematics MCQs functioned differentially based on gender. Among others, the researchers recommended that the Examinations Development Center (EDC), Enugu State Ministry of Education should evaluate the psychometric qualities of the items of the state's uniform promotion examination, especially in mathematics to identify items that are potentially biased due to gender and take appropriate steps to address such.
Keywords: Gender, Differential Item Functioning (DIF), Psychometric, Enugu State Uniform Promotion Examination, Mathematics

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Leveraging Think Pair Share in Improving Students' Academic Achievement and Retention in Algebraic Expression in Secondary Schools in Kano State

Yusuf Badar, Saudat Shehu Bala, & Abdulaziz Bello

Abstract
The research investigated leveraging think-pair-share (TPS) in improving student's academic achievement and retention in Algebraic Expression in Secondary Schools Kano state. Three each of objectives, research questions and hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted quasi experimental research design. A population of 9,573 senior secondary school year two students with the sample size of 148 students was used for the study. Algebraic Achievement Test (AAT) and Algebraic Retention Test (ART) were the tools used to gather data. The reliability of the AAT was found to be .88 using Spearman-Brown Product Reliability Coefficient and the ART was developed by swapping the items and options in AAT which retains the same reliability coefficient. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS. The research questions were answered using the mean and standard deviation and the hypotheses were tested using the z-test at the significance level of.05. Findings revealed that students taught algebraic concepts using TPS performed better academically and retained the concept better than those taught using conventional method. Additionally, no significant relationship exists between the gender of the students and the TPS teaching style. Therefore, it can be said that using the think-pair-share method improved academic achievement of students in algebraic concept. The study recommended that since the method improves academic achievement of students in algebraic concepts, math teachers should adopt it.
Keywords: Think Pair Share, Academic Achievement, Retention, Algebra

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Effect of Digital Learning Aids on Secondary School Physics Students Learning Outcomes in Benue State, Nigeria

Mojeed Olaoluwa Akinwumi & Sunday Onoja Clement

Abstract
The study explored effect of digital learning aids on Physics students' learning outcomes in secondary school in Benue State. The study population included all the 13,324 Senior Secondary Schools Two (SSSII) Physics students as at August 2024. The sample consisted of 39 SSS II students chosen using a multi-stage sampling technique. Physics Achievement Test (PAT) and Physics Students' Attitude Questionnaire (PSAQ) were used as instrument for data collection and were validated and the reliability of PAT and PSAQ were 0.87 and 0.86, using Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) and Cronbach's Alpha respectively. The findings revealed that, students who were taught using the Teacher Expository Approach performed considerably lower than those who were taught using digital learning aids (t = 9.013, Sig. =.000 at p<0.05). Also, in comparison to students taught using the Teacher Expository, those taught utilizing the digital learning aids exhibited a significant improvement in attitude. The study concluded that digital learning aids boost academic achievement and attitude. The study recommended that Physics teachers should adopt and incorporate digital learning technologies into their classroom instruction.
Key Words: Digital Learning Aids, Learning Outcomes, Physics, Attitude, Academic Achievement

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Efficacy of Video Recorded Instruction and PowerPoint Presentation on Secondary School Students' Interest in Biology in Federal Capital Territory

Nkadi Onyegegbu & Blessing, Okechukwu

Abstract
The study examined the impact of Video-Recorded Instruction (VRI) and PowerPoint Presentations (PPP) on secondary school students' interest in Biology. Guided by one research question and a null hypothesis, it utilized a quasi- experimental pretest-post-test non-equivalent group design. The sample included 120 students from a population of 28,841 first-year Biology students in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), selected through multistage sampling. Data was collected using Biology Student Interest Inventory (BSII) and lesson plans on using VRI & PPP, validated by specialists from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. BSII showed a reliability index of 0.79 analyzed using PPMC. Research questions were analyzed using mean and standard deviation while ANCOVA for testing the hypothesis at 0.05 significance level. Results indicated that students taught with VRI had a greater interest in Biology than those taught with PPP, recommending that VRI should be used often in schools to improve student interest in the subject.
Keywords: Video Recorded Instruction, PowerPoint Presentation, Interest, Biology.

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Efficacy of a School-Based Intervention On Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Attitude Among Adolescents in Zaria, Kaduna-State, Nigeria

Lawal, S.B., Nuru, R.A. & Ibrahim, A.

Abstract
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer and other neoplastic diseases. This study assessed the efficacy of a school-based intervention on HPV vaccination among adolescents in Zaria Education Zone, Kaduna State, Nigeria, using a mixed-method design that included quasi-experimental and survey approaches. A sample of 380 students was selected from eight schools. Data collection utilized the HPV Vaccination Attitude Questionnaire (HPVVAQ) and the Influence of School-Based Intervention on Vaccination Attitude Questionnaire (ISIVAQ), with reliability scores of 0.79 and 0.74, respectively. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, revealing a strong positive correlation between attitudes before and after the intervention (p = 0.00) and significant differences in vaccination attitudes favouring female students (p = 0.01). The study recommends that informed attitudes fostered through such interventions can enhance HPV vaccination acceptance and uptake, contributing to the prevention of HPV-related illnesses.
Keywords: Adolescents, Attitude, Efficacy, HPV, Intervention, School-based, Vaccination

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Effects of Crossover and Brainstorming Teaching Strategies on Senior Secondary School Students' Interest in Biology in Imo State

Onyegbule Christiana Chinenye

Abstract
The study investigated the effects of crossover and brainstorming teaching strategies on secondary school students' interest in Biology in Imo State. Two research questions were posed, and two null hypotheses formulated to guide the study. The researcher adopted a quasi-experimental research design involving pre-test, treatment, post-test and use of non-randomised intact classes. The area of the study is Imo State of Nigeria. The sample size for the study is 90 sampled from 67,543 SS2 Biology students using a multi-stage cluster, purposive and simple random sampling techniques. The instrument used for data collection is a Biology Interest Rating Scale (BIRS). The BIRS was validated by three Biology specialists in Life Science Education and two specialists in Educational Measurement and Evaluation for content and face validity. The reliability coefficients of 0.85 was obtained using Chronbach alpha. The research questions were answered with mean and standard deviation, while the hypotheses were tested using ANCOVA F- ratio at 0.05 level of significance. Among the major findings of the study made is; the mean interest score of students in both CTS and BTS in the post treatment test are approximately two times their mean interest in the pre-treatment test; the mean interest score of the students taught Biology using Brainstorming Teaching Strategy (BTS) in the post- treatment test is not significantly greater than the mean interest score of the students exposed to Biology using Crossover Teaching Strategy(CTS); the mean interest rating scores of male and female students taught biology using CTS and BTS in the post- test do not differ significantly. Based on the findings, the researcher recommends that Biology teachers employ crossover and brainstorming teaching strategies in teaching students since they have proven to improve students' interests as well as not being gender biased.

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Lecturers' Perception on Forms and Causes of Indiscipline among Students in Public Colleges of Education in Osun State

Kamaldeen Olohundare Sulyman, Adenike Florence Sijuade, Musa Fatimoh Aloba & Abdulrafiu Alaaya

Abstract
This study examined lecturers' perception on forms and causes of indiscipline among students in public Colleges of Education in Osun State. Two research questions were raised while two hypotheses were generated. It utilised descriptive research design of survey type, purposively selected the two public Colleges of Education in the state. Three hundred and sixty-five lecturers constituted the population, while 187 lecturers were proportionately selected out of the 365 in the two institutions. 'Lecturers' Perception on Forms and Causes of Indiscipline among Students Questionnaire' was used to gather data. Three experts, who specialised in Educational Management validated the instrument. Reliability test on Forms and Causes of indiscipline through the use of Cronbach's Alpha yielded 0.86 and 0.80 respectively; while the overall coefficient was 0.83. Research questions were answered using mean and standard deviation while t-test was used for hypotheses testing at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that the forms of indiscipline among students were cybercrime, prostitution, gambling, pre-marital sex, drug abuse, theft, drug trafficking, indecent dressing, examination malpractice and cultism. The causes of indiscipline included peer influence, social media influence, lecturer influence, parental imitation and nonchalant attitude of parents or guardians towards children or wards. Among other things, it recommended that parents should properly provide the needs of their children and adequately monitor their movement by checking the kind of friends they move along with both in their institutions and at homes, so to as prevent peer influence which could lead them to indiscipline acts.
Key words: Lecturers, Perception, Forms, Causes, Indiscipline

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Improving the Academic Achievement and Critical Thinking Dispositions of Biology Students Using the Four Mode Application Technique (4MAT) Teaching Method

Chimmuanya Ezere Obinna-Kanu

Abstract
This study examined the use of four mode application technique (4MAT) in improving the achievement and critical thinking dispositions in Biology among students in Owerri education zone I of Imo state. A quasi-experimental research design (intact classes with pre-test, treatment and post-test procedure) was the study's design. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. Two intact classes of 77 SS2 students served as the sample. An Achievement Test for Biology (ATFB) and a Biology critical thinking disposition rating scale (BCTDRS) were the study's data collection instruments. Kuder-Richardson (K-R20) was used to test the ATFB for reliability and Cronbach Alpha statistics for the BCTDRS which yielded internal consistency coefficients of 0.77 and 0.75 respectively. To answer the research questions, mean and standard deviations were used while ANCOVA F-test was employed to test the hypotheses at .05 significance level. Findings showed that Biology students exposed to 4MAT performed better in their academic achievement than those exposed to Lecture method (p<.05); the students exposed to 4MAT scored significantly higher mean critical thinking disposition scores compared with their counterparts exposed to Lecture method. Recommendation among others is the adoption of 4MAT by Biology instructors in Biology teaching for improved achievement and critical thinking dispositions.
Keywords: Academic Achievement, Biology, Critical thinking disposition, Four mode application technique (4MAT)

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Perception of Teachers on Chemistry Teaching for Creativity-Fostered Behaviour in Nigeria Secondary Schools

James Irinoye

Abstract
This study investigated perception of teachers on Chemistry teaching for creativity-fostered behaviour in Nigeria secondary schools using descriptive research design guided by three research questions. The population of the study was the 220 Chemistry teachers in all the 360 secondary schools in Ondo State. The sample size of the study was 142 obtained by using Taro Yamane formula. A self-designed instrument titled: Questionnaire on Chemistry Teachers' Creativity-Fostered Behaviour (QCTCFB) was employed. It was adequately validated. The reliability of the instrument using Cronbach's Alpha yielded r = 0.88. Data collected were analyzed using mean score. The results showed numerous challenges in promoting creativity-fostered behavior especially lack of pedagogical content knowledge and learning resources (X̅ = 3.04).The result further showed student-centred learning and professional development of teachers on creativity-fostered behaviour (X̅ = 3.22). The study concluded that emphasizes on creativity-fostered behavior through opportunities for students' engagement in practical learning experiences and provision of learning resources as well as professional development of teachers on the use of innovative strategies for curriculum delivery in the classroom setting are imperative. It was recommended that policy makers develop curriculum, procure and distribute instructional materials that has the potentials to promote creativity-fostered to schools, encourage teachers to use of innovative teaching methods, and government to refocus polity attention to teachers' welfare and provide learning resources to support the implementation process, in addition to providing professional development training for teachers on means of promoting creativity-fostered behaviour.
Keywords: Chemistry teaching, Creativity-fostered behavior, Secondary school, Teachers' perspectives.

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Teacher Trainees' Competency Needs for Global Citizenship Education

Grace Ogechukwu Ugwonna, Morah, Josephine Ngozi & Odili, Linus Chukwunweike

Abstract
This study investigated teacher trainees' competency needs in implementing global citizenship education. Two specific purposes and the corresponding research questions guided the study. The study's design was a descriptive survey design. The sample size for the study was 100 teacher trainees. Data was collected through the Global Citizenship Questionnaire (GCQ) developed by the researchers and face-validated by experts. A reliability index of 0.79 was established using Cronbach-alpha. Data collected was analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings showed that teacher-trainees have a competency need in knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes in global citizenship education and that teacher-trainees are not often exposed to pedagogical experiences that enhance their understanding of the global citizenship education contexts. Consequently, it was recommended among others that there is a need for stakeholders in teacher education programs to foster teacher trainees' interest in global citizenship through transformative pedagogical strategies.
Keywords: Competency need, Global citizenship, Education, Pedagogy, Teacher-trainee,

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Efficacy of Peer Tutoring Instructional Strategy on Students' Academic Achievement in Social Studies in Onitsha Education Zone

Morah, Josephine Ngozi, Eke, Chinenye Justina, Nwobu, Chukwudi Michael & Ugwonna, Grace Ogechukwu

Abstract
This work explored how peer tutoring can impact Social Studies students' academic achievement, using two formulated research questions and corresponding null hypotheses. Employing a quasi-experimental design specifically, a pretest, posttest non-equivalent control group, two intact classes of a sample size of 137 JSS II students drawn through a multistage sampling were involved in the study. Through the researchers' developed Social Studies Achievement Test (SSAT) instrument, data were gathered and analyzed using mean (x̄) and standard deviation (σ) for the research questions and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) for the hypotheses. Results showed that students taught Social Studies using peer tutoring differed significantly from those taught using the lecture method in terms of achievement (p<.05), and the difference for gender was not significant statistically (p>.05) in the experimental group. Accordingly, the study recommends that teachers should participate in professional development programs focused on effectively implementing peer tutoring strategies.
Keywords: Achievement, Instructional strategy, Lecture method, Peer Tutoring, Social Studies.

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Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor of Academic Stress Among Secondary School Students in Udi Education Zone of Enugu State

Amaka B. Ikechukwu-Ilomuanya & Felistas Chinaza Nnamani

Abstract
The study investigated emotional intelligence (EI) as a predictor of academic stress among secondary school students in Udi Education, Zone of Enugu State. The study was guided by two research questions and two null hypotheses. The research questions were answered and hypotheses tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted a correlational survey research design. The population of the study was 1,616 SS 2 students in public secondary schools in the study area while the sample was 321 SS 2 students determined using the Taro Yamane formula of sample size determination. The sample was drawn using proportionate random sampling technique. Emotional intelligence questionnaire (EIQ) and Students' Academic Stress Questionnaire (SASQ) were used for data collection. The instruments were face-validated by three experts; two from Counselling and Human Development Studies and one from the Department of Science Education (Measurement & Evaluation Unit), all in the Faculty of Education, University of Nigerian Nsukka. The reliability coefficients of 0.83 and 0.79 were obtained for EIQ and SASQ, respectively. Linear regression was used to answer the research questions and t-test statistic was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed, among others, that self-awareness has a very low predictive power on students' academic stress while internal motivation has very high predictive power on academic stress among secondary school students.
Keywords: Emotional intelligence, Academic stress, Secondary school students

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