Teaching Geometry in Public Secondary Schools in Maguindanao

Abstract

The major concern of this study was to determine the status of teaching geometry in public secondary schools in Maguindanao. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to gather the data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze and interpret the data. The data include the profile of the teachers, their teaching strategies, perceived effectiveness of these teaching strategies, the extent of coverage of topics in geometry, adequacy of instructional materials and facilities, and the problems encountered by the teachers. The data gathered were analyzed using the following descriptive tools: frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviations. The study yielded the following findings; the geometry teachers were found qualified to teach geometry in terms of educational attainment, academic degrees, specialization, and eligibility. However, majority were found to have short teaching experience (1-5 year) and significant number of them (14) have not undergone relevant training; the strategies of teaching applied by the teachers in teaching geometry are: chalk-talk or lecture, group discussion, peer teaching, and Question-and-Answer. Of these strategies, chalk-talk was most frequently used. Chalk talk strategy was perceived by the teachers as the most effective strategy in teaching geometry. Peer teaching, group discussion, and question-and-answer were perceived by the teacher as fairly effective. Role Playing, discovery, and Reporting were perceived as ineffective. Most of the topics prescribed by the Board of National Education as contained in the revised secondary School Curriculum were extensively coved by the geometry teachers within the academic year. The instructional materials and school facilities were found fairly adequate except for clock models, chalkboard compass, chalkboard, and small object collection, which were found inadequate. Problem related to class management, subject matter, facilities and equipment, and administrative support and supervision were perceived by the respondents as minor problems.