An Investigation into challenges encountered by ordinary level Physics learners when doing electronics practicals: a case of secondary schools in Hurungwe district, Zimbabwe

Author

Sithole, Annie

Title

An Investigation into challenges encountered by ordinary level Physics learners when doing electronics practicals: a case of secondary schools in Hurungwe district, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Physics learners in Zimbabwe, particularly those at the Ordinary school Level, encounter challenges in electronic practicals. This study investigated the challenges and common those are commonly encountered by learners when doing electronics practicals in their laboratories. It focused on rural secondary schools in Hurungwe District, Zimbabwe. The study involved 5 teachers, 3 school headmaster and 30 learners drawn from the three schools as participants obtained using purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The qualitative data were then subjected to thematic analysis. The findings revealed a general lack of functional laboratory infrastructure in the three sampled schools, limited and unreliable infrastructure (power, internet, and computers), shortage of appropriate practical materials, inadequate teacher training insufficient time for the practicals, teachers had limited confidence in conducting electronic practicals due to insufficient training and exposure. Recommendations include having ministry of Primary and Secondary Education

Date

April 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Challenges

Ordinary Level

Physics Learners

Electronics Practicals

Secondary Schools

Supervisor

Dr E Mudzamiri