Afan Oromo as a Medium for Science Subjects The Case of Ghimbi Schools
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Date
2009-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Until recently, Afan Oromo was not a medium of teaching and learning in public schools. Currently, the language is, however, serving as a medium of learning in most primary schools of Oromia. This study investigates the effect that the use of Afan Oromo as a medium of learning for science subjects bears on student performance.
The research, which was conducted on the second cycle of two primary schools of Ghimbi town, particularly on grades 7 and 8, attempts to compare achievements resulting from learning science in Afan Oromo with learning science in English. The finding of the study indicates that the majority of the respondents opted for Afan Oromo as a medium of instruction for science subjects in grades 7 and 8. However, with regard to their achievements, they are neither advantaged nor disadvantaged. It was found that they have no problem in using Afan Oromo as a medium for learning science subjects.
At the secondary level, particularly in grades 9 and 10, the competency of the students in English has been found to be low. For instance, it was reported that they have a serious problem of understanding TV lessons offered in English.
Based on the findings, the study recommends that improving the capability of Afan Oromo as a medium for science subjects should be given due attention. Besides, effort must be made to improve the competency of students in the English language in view of the fact that the language is so important for future opportunities. The inadequacy of teachers and textbooks in terms of both quantity and quality is another problem that needs to be addressed. Furthermore, taking the concern transpired during the research undertaking, the study suggests that private colleges and teachers teaching colleges need to revise their curriculum in order to provide adequate training for their trainee.
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medium of teaching and learning in public schools