Effects of Training Teachers on the Topics Natural Resources and Natural Hazards on Academic Performance of Primary School Pupils in Kaduna Metropolis

Abstract

<p>Nigeria social and economic development is firmly rooted on the exploitation of natural resources that abound in the environment. These resources need to be conserved and exploited using modern exploration technologies in order to secure the lowest extraction cost and lowest waste of materials. The country is also faced with the challenges of natural and man-made environmental hazards which are potential threats to humans as they interact with the earth’s natural environment.</p><p>Natural resources and natural hazards are environmental education topics taught at all levels of education in Nigeria and the effective teaching and learning of these topics necessities for early learning activities in schools. The teaching materials for the topics that enhance pupils understanding are shaped by the role the teacher plays in pupils learning. Teachers need to be familiar with what the teach, they need to have appropriate teaching techniques, different strategies for motivating the pupils and their capacity need to be built for effective teaching and learning.  </p><p>This research is carried out to investigate the effect of training teachers on the topics natural resources and natural hazards on academic performance of primary school pupils in Kaduna metropolis. Two research questions and two null-hypotheses were stated for the study.  A pretest and posttest quasi-experimental and control design was employed. Six classes including 6 teachers and 240 pupils were randomly assigned into experimental and control groups. The data was collected using two instruments: i, Natural Resources and Natural Hazards Achievement Test (NRNHAT) ii, Classroom Lesson Observation Checklist (CLOC).</p><p>The data were analyzed using t-test statistical tool and Mann-Whitney U test.</p><p>The result indicates a significant improvement in lesson delivery skills of teachers trained on the topic “Natural Resources and Natural Hazards” compared to those in the control group. In addition, the pupils in the experimental group showed more commitment and higher academic performance in the concepts Natural Resources and Natural Hazards than their counterparts in the control group. Therefore, training and re-training of teachers in the aspect of environmental education is recommended to be adopted by head teachers and principals supported by the Federal Government of Nigeria and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to foster positive attitudes, values and skills among young learners for the protection and improvement of the environment.</p>