A study on the english language as a medium of instruction in the teaching and learning science subjects in secondary schools

The study investigated the English language as a medium of instruction in teaching and learning science subjects in secondary schools. The purpose was to investigate the extent to which English language as Medium of Instruction affects learning science subjects in Tanzanian secondary schools. The main factors considered were the students and teachers language background, teachers' qualifications, and experience, the challenges science teachers encountered during the teaching using English as Medium of Instruction, the teaching and learning materials and the opinion of teachers and students on the appropriate media in Tanzania secondary schools. The methodological underpinning of the study draws on quantitative and qualitative approaches. Major sources of data were from questionnaire, interview, and observation which were processed through statistical package for social science. (SPSS) Four secondary schools (Mtitu, Kilolo, Kleruu and Lugalo) from Iringa and Kilolo districts in Iringa region were selected for the study. Science teachers and students who opted for science subjects in form three and four were used in this study. The findings showed that, professionally, the majority of teachers had the required qualifications and experience for teaching science. It was also found out that there was a problem of poor communication between teachers and students which forced teachers and students to use Kiswahili during science lessons. Regarding the extent to which the English language is effective in learning, findings showed that a majority of students revealed to have a problem in understanding English and suggested the use of both English and Kiswahili. The study further revealed that the situation of teaching and learning materials for science subjects was not satisfactory and some schools had no laboratories. Generally, the Medium of Instruction could not be referred as the major problem alone since there were other factors as mentioned above. The study recommends that, since the English language is very important in many countries including Tanzania, it should, therefore, be given high consideration at all levels of education by making sure that it is well taught and used in all levels of education. Lastly it is suggested to carry out the same research which will cover a larger area with a larger sample.