Locally Available Resources as an Instructional Aid in Secondary School Science in Kenya

Abstract

Science is a practical subject that is relevant to all our lives. Instructional methods employed by science teachers are to a very large extent influenced by the kind of resources and facilities available in the school. The instructional methods, in turn, influence the level and quality of participation and performance in science by students. Thestudy sought to identifythe LAIRs, to find out if these LAIRs are used by the science teachers and to determine the relationship between availability and use of LAIRsby the science teachers.The study was carried out in Uasin-Gishu County, Kenya. A sample of 33 biology teachers was randomly selected from 109selected schools in the county. The major purpose of the study was to survey the nature and extent of LAIRsin Uasin-Gishu County which are useful in improving science teaching. Descriptive research design was used in this study. Data was collectedusing questionnaires, observation schedules for biology lessons and observation checklist.Data obtained was analysed using SPSS.Pearsons’ product correlation was used to determine the relationship between variables.Results indicated inadequate use of LAIRs in science teaching. This is attributed by teachers not being aware of the rich curriculum laboratory offered by the schools’ immediate environment. The other reason is due to large contentto be covered within a specifiedtime and also the highly examination orientedteaching. Pearson correlation ‘r’ value, (0.502) with a P value < 0.05 implied a significant positive relationshipbetween availability and use of LAIRs. It is therefore recommended that science teachers undergo in-service training programs on use of LAIRs in schools asthis will greatly impact on the acquisition of science process skills by students and improve the overall performance of science as a basis of future science oriented careers