Assessment of the Integral Role of Laboratory Facilities in the Preparation of Science Teachers for Functional Science Education

Abstract

This study examined the roles of laboratory facilities for functional science education among science teachers in Ondo State, Nigeria. The study employed descriptive research design of survey type. A total of 51 science teachers were sampled from selected 15 public secondary schools in Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State. A validated questionnaire tagged Laboratory Facilities and Functional Science Education Questionnaire (LFFSEQ) was used for data collection. The data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation. The results of the study showed that secondary school teachers perceived that science education is important in improving scientific literacy, understanding the natural world and making crucial decisions on everyday issues. Some laboratory facilities were observed to be available but not adequate for teaching and learning of science. Teachers perceived that laboratory facilities have integral roles to play in preparing science teachers for functional science education. It was recommended that laboratory facilities should be made available and adequate for teaching and learning of science. Science teachers should have access to innovative classroom and scientific equipments. In-service training of science teachers should take cognizance of teachers' knowledge of the integral roles of laboratory facilities.