BUILDING UP FEMALE SCIENCE STUDENTS’ SOCIAL PROVISION: EXPLORING SCIENCE TEACHERS’ PERSPECTIVES OF THE IMPACT OF CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ON FEMALE SCIENCE STUDENTS’ SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AFTER THE COVID 19

Abstract

Co-curricular activities are a compulsory part for female science students at every level to expand their abilities in various ways. The study aims to explore the role of co-curricular activities in the social development of female science students at the higher secondary levels. Co-curricular activities can give early preparation to girls as far as social skills, people skills, identity, and networking among students. This study used a semi-structured interview to explore the science teachers’ views on the role of co-curricular activities in the social development of female science students. The sample includes science teachers involved in teaching and organizing various co-curricular activities. Findings showed that both male and female science teachers showed a positive response about the role of co-curricular activities in expanding female students’ social skills and networking. According to science teachers, science students participate majorly in activities like painting, speeches, quizzes and photography rather less participate in organizing events or farewell parties. Data indicated that girls take advantage of co-curricular activities mostly from physical activity or brain activity like quizzes. The Science teachers pointed out that the main hindrance for the science students is just because of longer hours study habits, culture; weather, and their typical family settings which do not let them fully participate in co-curricular activities. This study concluded that the co-curricular activities balance female science students’ personalities in their academics and social setup. This study recommends parents and Science teachers let the female students participate in more co-curricular activities to develop them socially, as well as academically. Keywords: Co-curricular, Science Education, Social Development, Events, Networking