Students’ readiness to participate in science project competitions: Views from secondary schools in southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Students' involvement in science competitions is a valuable educational activity that helps to increase students' attitudes toward science in general. The study focused on students' readiness to engage in secondary school science competitions within southern Ethiopia. A concurrent nested mixed-method research design was employed, with data obtained from a sample of 385 grade 12 natural science students. Results indicate that most students had yet to take part in science competitions. The study found that gender, teachers' commitment, and extra support significantly influence students' participation in science competitions. The main issues with students’ engagement in science competitions were poor research skills, a lack of technical know-how, and poor English language proficiency. In conclusion, increased participation in science competitions requires support from school administrators, teachers, parents, and the community during the project preparation process. Besides, projects that win in a science competition are made possible by well-equipped laboratories, access to the internet, well-trained personnel, timely communication, and an adequate supply of materials needed in the preparation process.