Implementation of Inquiry-based Practical Activities in Natural Science Education: With Specific Reference to Primary Schools in Addis Ababa City

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the implementation of practical activities in natural science education in Addis Ababa primary schools. For this purpose, the study used a qualitative research approach. Specifically, it employed a qualitative descriptive case study design. Two purposefully selected primary schools were involved in the study. All grades seven and eight science teachers and students were the data sources in the study. The study showed that inquiry-based practical activities in science subjects are not implemented; teachers and students are not aware of the implementation of practical activities through inquiry-based strategies. There is a lack of professional training for teachers and laboratory technicians. Similarly, lack of materials and facilities, absence of motivation and guiding of students learning, lack of teachers’ commitment, absence of science and technology companies to see the practice were found to be the major factors affecting the implementation of practical activities in science classes in the primary schools under the study. Keywords : Science education, Inquiry-based Practical Activity, Primary school, Addis Ababa DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/12-5-02 Publication date: March 31 st 2022