Students’ and Teachers’ Perception and Practice towards Laboratory Work in Chemistry Teaching-Learning: Evidence from Secondary Schools in North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

One of the inputs for a high-quality education is using laboratory activities which are characteristic features of science teaching at all levels of education. Consequently, this study was carried out to investigate the perception and practice centered on assessing the practice of laboratory work and identifying the factors that affect its implementation. To achieve these objectives, data were collected from secondary school students and teachers. In doing this study, quantitative and qualitative research methods and a descriptive survey design were used. Stratified random sampling was used in the selection of study participants. The data were obtained through questionnaires, observation, and interviews. Based on the analyzed data, the findings of the study revealed that both students and teachers perceived that chemistry practical courses (experiments) are relevant to students learning. The findings of the study also showed that despite its relevance, the practice of laboratory work is very low. Furthermore, the lack of resources (such as laboratory equipment), the lack of time to practice laboratory work, and students’ lack of engagement in laboratory activities were the major factors that affect the implementation of laboratory work. Finally, recommendations were made based on the major findings to improve the practice of laboratory work.

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