In- services training programs for effective science teachers professional practices : Experiences of science INSET participants in Pemba secondary schools

This study in service training programs for effective science teachers professional practices; used experiences of in services training (INSET) participants in Pemba island to obtain broad picture of INSET provision in the island. The purpose was primary to examine the effects attribute to in- service training programs offered to science teachers in Pemba on one hand, and identify the characteristics of INSET programs that help science teachers in their classrooms on the other hand. To provide comprehensive results, mixed research design (quantitative and qualitative) was used. Closed questionnaire and semi structure interviews techniques were used to collect data from seventy sampled science teachers in two district in Pemba Island. Combination of purposive, stratified and random sampling techniques was used to sample the INSET activities and respondents. Data analysis include descriptive statistics such as frequently, percentages and means and correction analysis. SPSS version 11.0 was generally used for data analysis. Descriptive analysis of data showed that on average large proportion of respondents have reported number of effects as a result of their INSET experience. These include confidence 81%, teachers ability to improve students learning 71%, lesson preparation 80%, teaching styles 70% and knowledge of the subject matter 62%. Correlation analysis of the data revealed strong association between the effect confidence and teachers ability to improve students learning. The study also revealed that INSET programs that focus on science subject content and methods of teaching it, provide opportunity for active learning are most likely to help science teachers in their classrooms. Thus, the study has therefore proved and provided some empirical evidence that in- services training is crucial for enhancing science teacher’s professional practices. The study recommended further study in this area but with large sample that will cover the whole Zanzibar. It also recommended launching of regular INSET programs to enhance science teacher’s professional practices.