Assessment of Challenges Associated with the Teaching and Learning of Science In Ghanaian Basic Schools

Abstract

This study sought to assess the challenges associated with the teaching and learning of science in Ghanaian Basic schools. The sample consisted of 90 respondents made up of 50 Basic school science teachers and 40 Basic school pupils drawn from Cape-Coast Metropolis. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample for the study. Questionnaire and interview were the research instruments used for the study. The Basic school pupils revealed that inadequate science practical activities, lack of good learning materials and pupils’ fear for science subject were the problems that hinder the learning of science. The science teachers also indicated that lack of teaching and learning materials, lack of science laboratories, overcrowded classrooms and presence of pupils’ misconceptions about science were some of the problems that impede the teaching of science. It was recommended that government of Ghana and other related stakeholders in science education should build science laboratories/practical rooms in all Basic schools and equip them with needed TLMs to aid science teachers do more practical activities so as to demystify science and make it more interesting for the pupils.