Effects arising from scarcity of physics teaching and learning materials in Tanzania secondary schools: a case of Singida region

The purpose of this study was to find out the effects of teaching and learning Physics in Tanzania Secondary Schools where scarcity of teaching and materials are eminent. This study employed qualitative research approach, although some information was dealt with quantitatively. The case study was conducted at selected secondary schools in Singida region with ninety-eight respondents. Ninety of these respondents were students who were studying Physics and eight Physics and Eight Physics teachers. Purposive sampling techniques were used to select Physics teachers, while simple random sampling was used to select students doing Physics. Data were collected through observations questionnaires, semi-structured interview and checklist. The study revealed that there were several problems faced by both teachers and students in Physics teaching and learning process. This included lack of teachers’ competencies; teachers failed to organize an effective teaching and learning process lecture teaching methods was mainly used; no practical work for most schools; Students depended on teachers’ lesson notice, handouts and pamphlets. They failed to participate effectively in teaching and learning process. Suggested ways used to solve the encountered problems include ways such as, uses of locally available materials for teaching and learning process.