INFLUENCE OF LABORATORY EXERCISE ON SCIENCE SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS PERFORMANCE IN CHEMISTRY IN AKOKO SOUTH WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ONDO STATE

This study examined the influence of laboratory exercise on science secondary school student's performance in Chemistry in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State. Four research questions were raised to guide the study and several literatures were reviewed Descriptive research design was employed for the study, two hundred (200) respondents were purposively selected from the sampled schools. Data were gathered through the use of self-structured questionnaire and was analyzed using sample table and percentage count. Based on the research questions, Findings shows that the practical aspect of Chemistry is more essential than any other aspect of chemistry you may think of 150 (75%), it will reveal what their chemical makeup and composition is all about. For a practical work to be carried out, there must be provision of a well-equipped laboratory and there should be a technologist or lab attendant to put the learners through 120 (60%). Students tend not to be interested in laboratory work because they felt it will be difficult, is time consuming, some felt lab work is only meant for the intelligent ones, some consider how hazardous it is 135 (67%). Based on the results, the following recommendations were made; teachers, PTA member, school management and students should work hand in hand to revive and bring back the effective usage of science laboratory in secondary school in Akoko, Chemist should organize individualist training for chemistry lecturers on how to utilize laboratory facilities in solving everyday educational problems and conferences, workshops and symposium should be organized to train people and enlighten them on the need for the use laboratory for practical purpose.