Using practical work to improve students’ attitude and performance in integrated science_ a case study of Lawra senior high school

Abstract

The study sought to use practical work in the teaching of Integrated Science to improve students’ attitude and their performance in the subject. In respect of this, the action research approach was used as the research methodology. A sample of 150 Form 2 Arts individuals who demonstrated poor attitude and poor performance in class were used for the study. Three main instruments were used to collect data namely questionnaire, practical test and interview schedule. The questionnaire was first administered to 150 students to assess the use of practical work to teach Integrated Science. After the intervention, a similar test was conducted in order to compare scores of students before the intervention. The study found that practical work had a positive effect on students’ performance in Integrated Science. Before the intervention the test scores results indicated that majority (67%) of the students scored below the pass mark of 30. However, after the intervention, the results showed significant improvement over the pre-test results as little over 90% of the students passed the test paper. Further statistical analyses showed that there was a significant improvement in post-test scores (M= 46.47, SD = 17.43) over pre-test score (M= 28.83, SD = 12.16) with condition: t(29) = 4.54, p = 0.00. This notwithstanding, the teaching of Integrated Science in the School has some challenges as there is limited time allocated for its teaching; no specific periods allocation for the teaching of practical work; inadequate TLMs and negative attitude of students towards studying the subject. The study therefore recommends that for students’ performance to be improved and sustained in the subject, these challenges must be adequately addressed by the school authority in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES).