An Assessment into the impact of improvised experiments in the teaching and learning of Combined Science. A case study of Manyenyedzi secondary school in Hurungwe North district in Mashonaland West province, Zimbabwe
- Author
- Kani, Edwell
- Title
- An Assessment into the impact of improvised experiments in the teaching and learning of Combined Science. A case study of Manyenyedzi secondary school in Hurungwe North district in Mashonaland West province, Zimbabwe
- Abstract
- The researcher conducted a study to assess the impact of improvised experiments in the teaching and learning of Combined Science in selected schools (Manyenyedzi secondary school) in Hurungwe North District in Mashonaland West Province. The study sought to establish the strategies that can be used to improve the teaching and learning of Combined Science through improvised experiments. The study was conducted in one secondary school in Hurungwe North district, in Chundu cluster. The study adopted a mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. This design was chosen to provide a holistic understanding of the impact of improvisational practical activities on student learning outcomes and engagement. The quantitative component allowed for statistical analysis of data, while the qualitative aspect provided deeper insights into the experiences and perceptions of students and teachers. The study sampled 5 teachers teaching combined science and 20 learners also doing combined science. Structured interviews, questionnaires and observations were used to gather data. 10 learners and three teachers were given questionnaires to answer while the other 10 learners and 2 teachers were interviewed. The population of the school is 150 in total with 80 being girls and 70 boys respectively. In terms of the teachers, the school accommodates 11 teachers in total (8 females and 3 males). The researcher chose to focus the study on ‘O’ Level Combined Science learners. Sample consisted of 20 students and 5 teachers. Sampling procedure included identification of one school within Chundu cluster. Within the selected school, form three students were chosen. Participants were selected using random selection. For teachers, only science teachers in the selected school were invited to participate in the study. Data was presented in form of charts, graphs and tables before an analysis of the data ensued. Responses of learners and teachers were thus presented, interpreted, and analyzed in relation to the topic under investigation. All data presented in this research reflected that the shortage of laboratory equipment and materials and equipment in secondary schools in Zimbabwe is an eyesore for many stakeholders.
- Date
- February 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Improvised experiments
- Teaching and learning
- Combined Science
- Supervisor
- Dr. Muzamba
- Media
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Kani, Edwell.pdf