AVAILABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF LABORATORY EQUIPMENT IN TEACHING AND LEARNING BIOLOGY AMONG SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN UNGOGGO LGA, KANO STATE

ABSTRACT The effective teaching and learning of biology in secondary schools significantly depend on the availability and proper utilization of laboratory equipment. This study investigates the availability and utilization of laboratory equipment in the teaching and learning of biology among secondary school students in Ungoggo Local Government Area, Kano State. The study aims to assess the extent of utilization of laboratory equipment in teaching and learning of biology. The study stated five research questions including; what are the availability of laboratory equipment in teaching and learning of biology, what are the problems facing the utilization of laboratory equipment in teaching and learning of biology. A descriptive survey research design was employed. A population of two thousand and twenty three (2023) and a sample of 100 students from 8 randomly selected schools in the study area participated in the study. Data were collected using a developed questionnaire, checklist and observations to collect data from students. A reliability of 0.80 was calculated. Three expert validated the questionnaire and checklist. The results showed that laboratory equipment for teaching biology was grossly inadequate, and the available equipment was poorly maintained and underutilized due to factors such as inadequate funding, insufficient training for laboratory personnel, and large class sizes hinder the optimal utilization of available resources. In addition, the findings revealed that while some schools possess basic laboratory equipment, there is a lack of sufficient, modern, and functional tools limiting effective practical learning experiences. The study also revealed that lack of laboratory equipment and poor utilization of available equipment negatively affected students’ academic performance and interest in biology. The study recommends that the government and school authorities to provide adequate laboratory equipment and ensure proper maintenance and utilization to enhance effective teaching and learning of biology amongst secondary school students. Also, the study recommends increased investment in continuous professional development for teachers, and strategies to maximize resource usage for enhanced biology education.