The status of the teaching and learning of biology in selected senior high schools in the Volta Region of Ghana

Abstract

The study investigated the status of the teaching and learning of biology in selected senior high schools in the Volta Region of Ghana. Data was collected from 21 biology teachers and 295 students in the selected schools. The main instrument was a questionnaire but was supplemented with interviews and observations. The content validity of the main instrument was determined with the help of the supervisors of the study. The target population comprised the 72 senior high schools in the Volta Region of Ghana. The accessible population however consisted of 17 senior high schools in the Ketu, Kpando, Ho and Hohoe Districts. Twelve schools from the accessible population were sampled for the study using stratified random sampling techniques. The 12 schools comprised 3 schools each from category A, B, C and D schools in the study area. The study revealed that although on the whole the biology teachers were academically qualified, their output in some cases were unsatisfactory. It was also found that practical activities were not organized in some schools. Additionally, practical activities were not being organized as expected in some of the schools. Among other recommendations, it was suggested that biology laboratories should be well equipped. It was also recommended that biology teachers should be supplied with handbooks to aid their instructional functions.