| 1 |
Author(s):
Emilia Sica, Giulia Savarese, Gaetano Criscitiello, Rosa Grano.
Page No : 1-6
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The “School in the Green”: An Experience of Developing Scholastic Intelligence Through the Enhancement of the Naturalistic and Visual-Spatial Ones
Abstract
The "Cipolletti" Institute has launched, from the 2020-21 school year to today, in the summer months, the experience of the "School in the Green", located in a wood in the town of Banzano di Montoro (AV- Italy). It is a space equipped for the safety of kindergarten and primary school children, in which motor, artistic, and laboratory activities are carried out in English since the Institute is a bilingual school. The school, which has been using the "Embodied cognition" model for years, has intended to integrate "Embodied" learning, precisely "Embodied", with outdoor teaching, trying to develop, in parallel with scholastic intelligence, also naturalistic intelligence, and visual-spatial. Among the scientific assumptions is that of Waldpädagogik, of experiential pedagogy that values discovery learning. The project of the "School in the Green" was supervised by the Chair of Developmental and Educational Psychology of the Department of Medicine, Surgery, Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana" of the University of Salerno (Italy), and the same Department sponsored the project. The activities carried out were: Study science directly through sensory experience in nature; Music and movement workshop with Orff instruments; Sensory and musical journey with handcrafted instruments; Motor paths and motor coordination to develop naturalistic intelligence and visual-spatial intelligence; Motor-sport activity in the greenery; Immersive learning of the English language; Peer tutoring for learning English; Small group activity in Spanish; Learning of less widespread languages with the 3D construction of morpho-phonemes (for example Korean, Portuguese); Theatrical activities in nature; Garden care; Workshop for flower arrangements; Outdoor cooking workshop¸local field trips. This short article reports the theoretical construct of reference and research to evaluate whether school learning activities benefit from being implemented in a naturalistic context.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Ambrose Kombat, Vincent Ninmaal Asigri, Churcher Kwesi Amanyi, Stephen Atepor, Joseph Amiyine Adugbire, Vincent Kofi Akwensi, Michael Banawono Apara.
Page No : 7-24
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Determining the Most Effective Stage of the Think-Pair-Share Teaching Strategy
Abstract
This investigation was carried out to examine the effect of think-pair-share on high school learners’ academic attainment in fractions and the most effective stage of the think-pair-share. Two research questions and five hypotheses guided this study. An explanatory sequential mixed method design was used. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used to select the first-years and the 78 participants, respectively. Teacher-made fractions achievement tests and interviews were used as the data-gathering instruments. Students’ academic achievement was analysed using independent and paired samples t-tests whilst the interview data was analysed thematically. The study found that learners who received fractions instructions using the think-pair-share model outperformed their colleagues who were taught fractions without think-pair-share. Also, the performance of students at the pair stage was higher than the performance of the same students at the think stage on the same test items. It was again found that intolerance, lack of self-confidence and inability to build consensus on the part of some students affected their performances at the pair stage. It was, therefore, concluded that Think-Pair-Share is effective in teaching fractions and that the most effective stage of the Think-Pair-Share strategy is the pair stage. It was therefore recommended that teachers be encouraged to use the think-pair-share teaching strategy in their teaching and that think-pair-share should be made to form an integral part of the Senior High School mathematics curriculum. Again, teachers and the Ghana education service should consider assessing students in pairs. Also, teachers should encourage students to be tolerant and confident in themselves.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Olabode Opeoluwa Oluwatoyin, Awolola Oluwatoyin Isaiah, Dr. Awusah Ikechukwu Benedictus.
Page No : 25-36
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Influence of Some Teachers’ Variables on Academic Achievement in Biology among Secondary School Girls in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria
Abstract
Introduction: Education is an aspect among a few that instills an essential expertise, capabilities as well as knowledge between persons; this then leads to total evolution and advancement of the entities, community and the entire country as a whole. An individual who is formally instructed is not only simply capable of achieving sought after goals and intents; on the other hand, it is also able to give a proficient support towards the comfort of the community. This study assessed the influence of teachers' variable on academic achievement in biology among secondary school girls in Ibadan North Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria. Methodology: A descriptive survey research design was used and multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to select the 20 teachers who participated in the study. Ten public secondary schools in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria were randomly selected. A self-designed instrument titled: Teachers' Variable on Academic Achievement in Biology Questionnaire was analyzed. Two research questions were answered; percentage, Pearson moment correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis were used to test the two hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Results: There was no significant relationship between teachers' academic qualification and academic achievement among secondary school girls offering biology in public secondary schools in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State (r = 0.412; df=18; p>0.05). Furthermore, with respect to teachers’ teaching experience and the academic achievement, there was no significant relationship (r=0.324; df=18; p>0.05). Consequently, the connection between teachers’ academic qualifications did not correlate with academic achievement among secondary school girls offering biology. Recommendations: The study recommended that the state government should prioritize teachers’ educational qualification in biology in public secondary schools in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. Also, students should be motivated in order to improve their attitude towards biology as a subject.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Mohamed Bangura.
Page No : 37-51
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Sociology Learning Curriculum for Sustainable Development: The Sierra Leone Rural and Urban Social Observation
Abstract
This research sought to explore sociology learning curriculum affairs, teaching and social learning for sustainable development in Sociology Departments in Sierra Leone. Education for Sustainable Development is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation dream which desires at transforming the route to education by accommodating doctrines, attitudes, customs and demands in all sorts of learning. Literature has authenticated the significance of problem resolving, environmentally applicable sociology education, activity dependent and cooperative education as the foundation for sustainable development. Focus has also been lodged alongside the pedagogical and sociology curriculum affairs in assistance of sustainable teaching and learning in developing nations. The methodology recruited consisted of literature search, questionnaires, interviews, observation and documentary analysis. The research was embraced on two rural and two urban university sociology departments. The outcomes disclosed that some departments obeyed a genuinely harmonised sociology curriculum where academic performance was harmonised with industry-based education or learning, while others obeyed an authentically academic sociology curriculum. Results demonstrated that trailing an academic sociology curriculum steered to relevant employment though unemployment was immense due to the absence of competence. The immense rate of employment of those trailing harmonised sociology curriculum seemed to be an inducement. The research concluded that a harmonised curriculum and sociology education was more constructive for sustainable development and entrepreneurship. Advance research is required on the sociology curriculum and approaches for education or industry harmonisation for sustainable development and challenges sociology departments encounter in attempting to execute the Education for Sustainable Development programme in developing nations.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Dr. Peter Yidana, Ms Esther Anankware Bangase, Madam Regina Bagina, Mr. Graham Billa.
Page No : 52-75
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A Model of Administrative Service Quality in Higher Education
Abstract
The quest for quality service delivery in higher education has triggered the deployment of quality assurance systems to evaluate service quality. However, it appears that little has been done to develop an empirically validated model that can be used to effectively evaluate administrative service quality in higher education. The aim of this research was to develop an experimentally proven model for evaluating administrative service quality in higher educational institutions. The study adopted the cross-sectional survey method. Three hundred and seventy-six (376) students sampled from six public universities participated in the study. Questionnaire was the instrument for data collection. The questionnaire included 45 items across five domains (service quality perception, satisfaction, loyalty, value, and institutional reputation). Structural equation modeling techniques were used to analyse the data. The findings suggested that the conceptual model was generally valid and reliable. The findings further showed that service quality was a significant predictor of students’ level of satisfaction, loyalty and value. The findings additionally showed that satisfaction significantly predicted loyalty and loyalty in turn significantly predicted institutional reputation. This model can be used to evaluate administrative service quality in higher education with a higher degree of precision.
| 6 |
Author(s):
Yusu Qin, Rui Li, Shujuan Gao, Li Nv, Ci Cheng.
Page No : 76-91
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A Study on the Relationship Between Positive Psychological Quality and Academic Performance of College Students
Abstract
In sharp contrast to the relevant research on positive psychological quality and academic performance in basic education, there is almost no relevant research in higher education in China. In order to explore the relationship between positive psychological quality and their academic performances of college students, and furthermore, whether positive psychological quality can affect their performances through the influence of academic self-efficacy and learning engagement, we conducted survey research among medical students in southwest and northeast China. We found that there are differences in positive psychological quality, academic self-efficacy, academic engagement and academic performance among students of different genders and grades. Girls' academic performance and engagement are higher than boys. The positive psychological quality of higher grades is better than that of lower grades. Positive psychological quality can affect academic performance alone, and the effect is more obvious when it is combined with academic self-efficacy. The positive psychological quality and academic self-efficacy can effectively affect learning engagement, which also can affect academic performance. However, learning engagement and academic self-efficacy have no mediating effect on positive psychological quality and academic performance.
| 7 |
Author(s):
Ambrose Kombat, Churcher Kwesi Amanyi, Vincent Ninmaal Asigri, Stephen Atepor, Joseph Amiyine Adugbire, Veronica Wewora Adayira.
Page No : 92-99
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Unveiling the Silent Suffering: Exploring the Lived Experience of Girl Child Marriage Victims and its Impact on their Education
Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to explore the lived experiences of victims of girl child marriage, an issue that persistently affects countless girls worldwide, and its impact on the victim’s education. Using a phenomenological approach, the study delves into the narratives of girls who have been married off at an early age, examining their perspectives on the impact of marriage on their education, personal development, and overall well-being emotions. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the study reveals the multifaceted nature of girl-child marriage and its profound impact on the lives of its victims. Girl child marriage victims experienced emotional and psychological distress, socio-economic and health-related challenges, as well as a disruption in their education. By giving voice to the experiences of these girls, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricacies surrounding girl-child marriage and underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and policy changes.
| 8 |
Author(s):
Florence Oluwatoyin Adebayo, Senimetu Ileuma (Ph.D).
Page No : 100-109
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School Safety Factors: A Necessary Condition for Job Commitment of Secondary School Teachers in Nigeria
Abstract
School safety is a critical factor for the job commitment of secondary school teachers in Nigeria. This study examines the various aspects of school safety and their impact on teachers' job satisfaction and commitment. The study focuses on physical school safety, psychosocial school safety, school transportation safety, background verification checks of staff, and the implementation of a visitor management system. The paper highlights the importance of physical school safety measures, including building design, emergency planning, security technology, personnel, communication, maintenance, and student supervision. It emphasizes the need for schools to create a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes positive mental health and addresses social and emotional issues, thereby ensuring psychosocial school safety. The study also discusses the significance of school transportation safety, including vehicle design, driver training, and the implementation of laws and regulations. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of conducting background verification checks for staff to prevent incidents involving students. It explores the role of a visitor management system in enhancing school safety by controlling and monitoring visitor access. The study identifies overcrowding, inadequate security measures, poverty, substance abuse, inadequate teacher training, corruption, and political instability as key problems contributing to poor school safety in Nigerian secondary schools. In conclusion, the study argues that ensuring school safety is crucial for the job commitment of secondary school teachers in Nigeria. It recommends implementing adequate security measures, addressing student behavior management, providing teacher support and professional development opportunities, and promoting a culture of safety in schools. By addressing these challenges, the government can create a safer and more supportive working environment for teachers, leading to improved outcomes for students and the education system as a whole.
| 9 |
Author(s):
Dakur Dickson Sura (Ph.D).
Page No : 110-119
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Guide to Teaching Geography for Achieving Analytical Thinking Skills Among Secondary School Students
Abstract
Geography is a discipline which has witnessed evolution in purpose, content, method of study and application of knowledge, being a reflection of the changing philosophy and thought of scholars of different periods of time. Geography during the ancient, mediaeval and even the pre-modern periods was largely concerned with the description of places, discoveries of geographical phenomena and drawing of route and place maps. Modern geography’s foundation was built on Darwin’s theory of evolution, which idea was applied to human society. Consequently such concepts as anthropogeography, social Darwinism, political geography, agricultural geography, economic geography, medical geography, environmental determinism, cultural determinism, applied geography, electoral geography, behavioural geography and quantitative geography, just to mention a few, have emerged as themes of study in the discipline. Hence, geography today is no longer a passive science of description of places on the earth’s surface, but an active scientific study immersed in finding solutions to a plethora of human problems. The solution to human problems are only achievable through active teaching of the subject using apposite instructional methods, curriculum contents and objectives, instructional materials and methods of evaluation for teaching and learning. This paper therefore discusses the relevance of some active methods in the context of students’ thinking process, particularly higher-order thinking skills, with specific focus on analytical thinking skills. The paper proposes experiential spatial problem based learning (ESPBL) as an instructional model for the teaching of geography at the secondary school level of learning as a means of enhancing analytical thinking skills of students. The author believed that this has the potential for actualizing the objective of geography education in the twenty-first century, which aims is to achieve the sustainable development goal.
| 10 |
Author(s):
Dr. Eriya Muwanguzi, Dr. Serunjogi Charles Dickens, Edward Kibaya.
Page No : 120-129
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An Analysis of Community Engagement in Higher Education: A Conceptual Exploration
Abstract
This conceptual paper provides an overview of community engagement in higher education, highlighting its definition, goals, and various models of engagement. The paper explores the benefits and challenges of community engagement for both higher education institutions and communities, and presents strategies for designing and implementing effective community engagement initiatives. The authors also discuss methods for assessing community engagement outcomes and impact, as well as the challenges and limitations of evaluating community engagement initiatives. The paper concludes with a discussion of future directions and opportunities for community engagement in higher education, and the implications for research and practice. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive and informative review of community engagement in higher education, serving as a useful resource for academics, practitioners, and researchers interested in this important topic.
| 11 |
Author(s):
Dr. B. I. Ele, Dr. E. E. Essien, Mrs. B. G. Ele.
Page No : 130-144
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Effects of Teaching Environment on the Academic Performance of Social Studies Students in Tertiary Institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria
Abstract
This study examined the effects of the teaching environment on the academic performance of Social Studies students in tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria. The researchers adopted a quasi-experimental of pre-test and post-test research design for the study. The population of the study comprised 1200 students and samples of 600 students were selected through a stratified random sampling technique from three tertiary institutions in Cross River State. The researchers collected data with a learners environment structured questionnaire developed based on a five-point Likert scale whose reliability estimate ranged from 0.7 to 0.8 and achievement test scores adopted from Social Studies examinations in the Department of Social Science Education from the Federal College of Education - Obudu, Cross River State College of Education - Akamkpa and Elder Oyama Memorial College of Education, Ofat, Obubra in 2022. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used to analyze the data collected. The hypotheses were tested at a 0.05 level of significance and 5% degree of freedom to ascertain the extent to which face-to-face and online teaching environments affect Social Studies students’ academic performance in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The result showed the negative effects of the traditional teaching environment on students’ academic performance in Social Studies. Also, the result showed the negative effects of the online teaching environment on students’ academic performance in Social Studies. It was recommended that the traditional teaching environment and online teaching environment should be encouraged if students’ academic performance in Social Studies must recuperate.
| 12 |
Author(s):
Idieno Ogboghaniir Myke-Sotohn .
Page No : 145-158
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Stress Management Strategies and Teachers’ Effectiveness in Public Senior Secondary Schools in Rivers State
Abstract
This paper addresses the issue of stress and its management and control, and how this can affect the effectiveness of teachers in public senior secondary schools in Rivers States. The paper further explains what stress is—that stress is the disequilibrium of the body metabolism, either in the physical, emotional or mental state and teachers’ stressors, which are work overload, lack of promotions, late payments of salaries, low salaries and poor work environment, etc. and how all these stressors and others, if not properly managed, can make teachers inefficient in their responsibility of imparting knowledge to the students of the public senior secondary schools in Rivers State. It also addresses how this stress could truly weigh the teachers down, with sickness, high blood pressure and even death, if not managed. And when teachers are stressed up, they cannot be effective. Strategies of managing stress among teachers as enumerated in this paper, for their optimum productivity, among others, are exercise, taking a time out with loved ones, relaxation, etc. This paper makes it bold that managing stress is very important and necessary among the teachers of the public senior secondary schools in Rivers State, for their wellness. This would make them vibrant, fit and bounce back for their effective productivity. Among other suggestions are employing teachers’ assistants to ease workload, building recreational centres for teachers and increasing teachers’ salaries. The government should also promote them promptly.
