PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH FAILURE IN LABORATORY PRACTICALS OF SCIENCE RELATED SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN EGOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF EDO STATE

The study investigated the “Problems Associated with Failure in Laboratory Practicals of Science Related Senior Secondary School Students in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State”. In order to achieve the purpose intended, four research questions were raised. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The total population of the study is two hundred and three (203) science teachers. The sampled size used was one hundred and fifty (150) science teachers. The instrument used for this study was a structured questionnaire which was validated through expert judgment approach and was tested for reliability through internal consistency method. The data obtained was analyzed using frequency count and mean. The findings from the study revealed that laboratory practicals have an effective way of developing the curiosity and logical thinking of students which is one of the reason why teaching of practicals is very important as far as teaching of science is concerned. However, students don’t understand
better when they are not involved in laboratory practical experiment. The study also revealed that, most science laboratories are dilapidated, not well stocked with facilities, seats and demonstration tables, even when these materials are made available, their management becomes questionable. Moreover, the few available equipment, students are not allowed to have access to them because of fear of being damaged or stolen. Lastly, the main problems revealed for the failure of science students in laboratory practicals include; lack of resources, lack of laboratories and laboratory equipment, lack of laboratory technicians and large classes.