Science Teaching I

BY ASCENTWEB · PUBLISHED 05/12/2018 · UPDATED 05/10/2019

Science teaching involves different activities. In a strict sense, there are no scientific methods but methodology of science teaching. Various methods are often used by scientist to disseminate information’s. These methods include: discussion, lecturing, demonstration, project work, field-trip, Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI), discovery, guided and unguided inquiry etc.

“The science teacher should be aware of certain variables which facilitate the selections of appropriate approaches of impacting knowledge to pupils.”Thus in selecting the methodology for a science lesson, the science teacher should consider the following factors.

Factors that Can Affect the Choice of Teaching Methods 

1. The pupils’ age, their previous knowledge on the topic and their general ability. The method of instruction for homogeneous class should be different from heterogeneous class.
2. The method used should be suitable for the class. For instance, in teaching the effect of litmus paper on ash solution, lemon solution, cashew and mango juice, it will be inappropriate to teach the lesson with discussion method instead of demonstration or laboratory method.
3. The time the lesson will take place must be put into consideration. If a science lesson is to take place in the afternoon, it is advisable to select a method which requires students’ participation.
4. The size   of   the   class   should also be considered when    selecting    method of   impacting knowledge. If a discussion method is used for a large class of over hundred pupils, the control may be difficult to attain.
5. The resources that are at the disposal of the teacher should be considered in the choice of teaching methods. Where there are no materials and equipment for laboratory experiment, individual  laboratory experiment  or  inquiry method cannot be effective.