Factors responsible for low enrolment in chemistry as perceived by chemistry education students in Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper highlighted some factors responsible for low enrolment in Chemistry as perceived by Chemistry students in Ignatius AJURU University of Education, Rivers State. The study adopted an opinion survey design using Chemistry Education students as the subjects out of which 120 students were randomly selected. Five research questions were stated to guide the study. A 25 item questionnaire covering five enrolment factors with a reliability index (r = 0.87) was used. Data collected were analyzed using mean, standard deviation and Chi – square. The results showed that all five factors under study (parental and peer group influences abstractness of some Chemistry concepts, students background knowledge and phobia of danger/hazard associated with chemical substances) have positive and high relationship with students enrolment in Chemistry Education. It was concluded that these factors significantly affect students’ low enrolment in Chemistry Education. Therefore, it was recommended amongst others that School guidance and counseling should regularly organize career guidance to students on their choice of career and parents should not interfere in their children choice of career but leave the students to choose career based on interest and passion.