Monitoring supervision of practical works for improvement of biology teaching: a focus on selected Tanzanian secondary schools

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Date
2006
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
There has been a devastating decline in performance of science subjects due to introduction of an Alternative to Practical Examinations that led to many teachers opting not to carry out practical works in schools. The purpose of this study was to explore some strategies of monitoring supervision of practical works in order to improve biology teaching and learning in Tanzania secondary schools. The study guided by the Goodlad`s framework of evaluation. The study involved five co-education secondary schools from Dar es Salaam region, two of which were monitored and three which remained un-monitored. Instrument for data collection included interview schedules, observation checklist, questionnaires, documentary review and achievement tests. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 11.0 programme, content analysis, data reduction and classification, respectively. Finding revealed significant improvements learning outcomes that can be attribute to monitoring. The study recommends that the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training should design a monitoring system that will ensure that a minimum number of practical activities and skills are executed in schools i order to improve students` experiences and practical skills. Science laboratories in all schools should be constructed and equipped with adequate, chemicals including other instructional materials, especially textbooks and teachers` guides.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library
Keywords
Science subjects, Biology teaching, Practical examination, Secondary schools, Secondary school teachers
Citation
Massawe, J. E (2006) Monitoring supervision of practical works for improvement of biology teaching: a focus on selected Tanzanian secondary schools, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam. Dar es Salaam.