The Practice of Student-Centred Methods And Continuous Assessment in Teaching Science in Oromia Teachers' Colleges
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Date
2010-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study described how instructors are being applied studentcentered
approach in teaching science. It also examined how continuous
assessment techniques are being practiced in teaching science. The
study was conducted at randomly selected Oromia Techers' College;
Assela, Robe and Sebeta Teachers' Colleges. Accordingly a sample 286
of science students (1st and 2nd year) and 38 of science instructors were
included in the study. Descriptive survey method was employed to
accomplish the study. Academic deans, instructors and students were
the source of data for the study and Questionnaire was the main data
gathering instrument which was supported by interview, observation
and document analysis. The data gathered through these instruments
were analyzed using percentages, mean scores, chi-squares and
descriptive statements and all differences were tested' for statistical
significance at the 0.05 alpha level. The study showed that the
practices of student-centered method .and continuous assessment in
teaching science were weak. The major reasons were large number of
students in the class, shortage of time and students' miss perception
about student-centered method and continuous assessment.
Furthermore, the study revealed the impact of colleges and classroom
facilities on the succesJuI practice of student-centered methods and
continuous assessment techniques. The study also revealed that
instructors lack of appropriate pre-service training as one of the major
problems in the practice of s tudent-centered methods. Ge nerally, the
study showed that instructors of the sample colleges did not properly
applying the student-centered methods and continuous assessment.
They mos tly used traditional teaching methods and assessment
techniques. Thus, it is underlined that the concerned bodies should take
the necessary measures in order to change the current state of science
education in the region.
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Keywords
Assessment in Teaching Science in Oromia Teachers' Colleges