Enhancing Science Process Skills Acquisition in Chemistry among Secondary School Students through Context-Based Learning

Abstract

The study examined the effect of Context Based Learning (CBL) and gender influence on chemistry students’ acquisition of Integrated Science Process Skills (ISPS). Two research questions guided the study. This study used a quasi-experimental research design with a sample of 192 participants who had an average age of 15. Three instruments were used in data collection. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The results showed that Context Based Learning (CBL) had more effect on students’ Integrated Science Process Skills (ISPS) in chemistry. Students exposed to CBL pedagogy acquired more Experimental Skill (EXPS) than Analyzing and Interpreting Data Skill (ANIDS) with Identifying and Controlling Variables Skill (ICVS) the least.  Also, students exposed to Conventional Strategy (COS) excelled in ANIDS, more so than Identifying and Controlling Variables Skill (ICVS) with Experimental Skill (EXPS) the least acquired. The influence of gender on ISPS was observed in favour of females. The study concluded that gender imbalance exists in all spheres of life, therefore, chemistry teachers should help students in acquiring integrated science skills using the two approaches to enhance male and female students’ knowledge, values, and skills creatively in secondary school chemistry. The study recommends the teaching of students on everyday activities that foster gender balance in Lagos State secondary schools.