Global Journal of Educational Research, Policy and Practice
The Global Institute for Research in Educational Policy, Practice and Review (GIREPPR) exists to contribute to, improve and expand the current knowledge about research in Education, Arts Humanities and Sciences through organisation of academic conferences and publication of academic journals to disseminate research findings to enhance quality of education and development at all levels in Africa and globally. By doing this, research from Africa will be projected to the global audience and vice versa. To achieve the forgoing, therefore, the Global Journal of Educational Research, Policy and Practice (GJERPP) is the official Journal of the Global Institute for Research in Educational Policy, Practice and Review. While covering education in all sectors, levels and forms, the GJERPP seeks to enhance global exchange of ideas and knowledge through qualitative, quantitative and mixed mehtods research in Education, Humanities, Sciences and Arts inorder to inform policy reforms and encourage best practices. We are pleased to announce call for papers for publication in GJERPP available online and in print.
IT3FLS-BASED ONTOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK FOR ASSESSING THE SUCCESS RATE OF PONSETI CASTING IN CLUBFOOT TREATMENT
Clubfoot represents a congenital deformity of the musculoskeletal system where the foot twists inward, often impairing gait and overall mobility if left uncorrected. Among available corrective methods, the Ponseti approach remains the gold standard for non-surgical treatment, employing systematic manipulation, sequential casting, and post-correction bracing to sustain alignment. In this study, a dataset comprising 3000 patient cases and 39 clinical, demographic, and functional features was analyzed to explore determinants influencing treatment success. Ontology-based data modeling was incorporated to enrich semantic understanding and ensure structured representation of clinical knowledge. The findings identified age at initial casting, affection type, and gender as primary factors shaping treatment response. Baseline functional scores (MFCS and HFCS) averaged between 2.25 and 2.5, indicating variations across individual cases. Principal Component Analysis underscored these variables as major contributors to outcome diversity. Employing the Interval Type-3 Fuzzy Logic System (IT3FLS) yielded accurate predictive results (RMSE = 0.3414; MSE = 0.1165; MAE = 0.3066; MAPE = 30.66%), confirming its robustness for clinical analytics and outcome evaluation in Ponseti casting.
Copyright (c) 2026 Global Journal of Educational Research, Policy and Practice
INTEGRATED LEARNING AND INTERNSHIP EFFECTIVENESS IN NIGERIAN ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION
This study examines the effectiveness of integrated internship programs in Nigerian architectural education, by aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical classroom instruction and professional industry practice to enhance professionalism. The research identified factors that served as systemic and general barriers to effective implementation of integrated learning and internship. It assessed the alignment between academic curricula and industry needs, and evaluated the influence of supervision and digital exposure on learning outcomes among students of architecture in universities in Nigeria. The study used a mixed-methods approach, and an embedded multiple-case design was applied across four accredited universities samples for the study. Data were gathered from 150 students and recent graduates through surveys instrument, along with oral interviews of 25 practitioners and lecturers. The findings from the study revealed that only 41.9% of the students felt adequately prepared for internships, as they exhibited low competence in core professional areas including project management (22.2%) and construction documentation (29.9%). On a brighter note, a strong positive correlation was observed between the quality of supervision and general satisfaction during internship (r = 0.721, p < .05), yet 80% of supervisors noted that some students still faced difficulties in applying theoretical knowledge, while only 37.6% of respondents had exposure to advanced digital tools like BIM during internship and classroom learning. The study concluded that the internship model practices in Nigeria is hugely flawed, constrained by inconsistent supervision, limited technological integration, and absence of competency-based assessment. The study recommended reforms targeted at university-industry collaboration, structured supervisor training, digital literacy enhancement, and a shift toward competency-based evaluation frameworks.
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMME: INTEGRATING NEUROPSYCHOLOGY AND NEUROBILOGY
Inclusive education is a critical pillar for achieving equitable, high-quality learning and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). Despite its importance, higher education teacher programmes often lack integration of neuropsychological and neurobiological insights, which limits teachers’ capacity to address learner diversity effectively. This article examines the intersection of inclusive education, teacher preparation, and neuroscience, emphasizing how cognitive and neural principles can enhance instructional practice. Drawing on neuroconstructivist theory and the Universal Design for Learning framework, the study explores practical strategies for embedding neuroscience into teacher education curricula, including curriculum redesign, experiential learning, faculty professional development, and technology-enhanced instruction. The article further highlights the impacts of such integration on sustainable development, including improved learner engagement, enhanced educational equity, development of lifelong learning skills, and preparation of inclusive future educators. Challenges such as limited faculty expertise, curricular rigidity, resource constraints, and resistance to change are identified, with recommendations provided to mitigate these barriers. By bridging neuroscience and pedagogy, higher education institutions can equip teachers to implement inclusive, adaptive, and sustainable educational practices, ensuring that all learners are supported and empowered to achieve their full potential.
E-MAIL CATEGORIZATION AND SECURE COMMUNICATION USING MACHINE LEARNING AND CRYPTO-STEGANOGRAPHY
We are in an era of increasing cyber threats and information overload, the need for intelligent and secure digital communication systems has become paramount. Email, as one of the most widely used communication tools in both personal and organizational contexts, faces persistent challenges related to data privacy, message mismanagement, and unauthorized access. This study presents the development and evaluation of a secured, classified email system that integrates machine learning-based categorization with advanced crypto-steganographic techniques to enhance both the organization and security of electronic messages. The primary aim of the study is to design a system capable of automatically classifying emails according to their communication purpose - casual, official, or non-official emails and applying context-aware security measures to protect sensitive content during transmission. To achieve this, a synthetic dataset of 7,000 email was generated and structured using a comprehensive database schema that includes metadata such as sender, recipient, subject, body, and date. The Naïve Bayes algorithm was employed to classify emails based on textual features extracted through Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) vectorization.
EFFECTS OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS, GENDER AND COGNITIVE ABILITY ON STUDENTS` ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN BASIC SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA
This study investigated the effect of instructional materials, gender and cognitive ability on students’ academic performance in Basic Science and Technology in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. To achieve the objectives of this study four research questions were raised and four null hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. A non-randomized pre-test post-test control group design was adopted for the study. The population of the study was 5,365 while the sample size was 230 students. The students were drawn from three intact classes in three co-educational public secondary schools in Uyo. Basic Science and Technology Performance Test (BSTPT) and Basic Science and Technology Cognitive Ability Test (BSTCAT) were used for data collection. These instruments were validated and subjected to the split half method of reliability determination. The test items were split into odd and even numbered items and scored separately. The scores obtained were correlated using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) and Spearman Brown Formula of reliability determination. The result showed reliability coefficient of 0.70 and 0.78 for BSTPT and BSTCAT, respectively. Students in the experimental group 1 were taught energy transformation using integrated-energy-model, those in experimental group 2 were taught using flip chart while those in the control group were taught using chalk board. The data obtained from the tests after the treatments were analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). All hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The results indicated a significant difference in the mean academic performance scores of students taught energy transformation using integrated-energy-model, flip chart and chalk board. There was no significant difference in the mean academic performance scores of male and female students in the three treatment groups. There was a significant difference among the mean performance scores of high, average and low ability students taught energy transformation using integrated energy model, flip chart and chalk board with high cognitive ability students leading. There was no significant interaction effects of instructional materials, gender and cognitive ability on students` performance on the concept of energy transformation. Based on the findings, it is concluded that integrated-energy-model is most effective in enhancing students` academic performance on energy transformation than flip chart and chalk board. It was recommended among others that, Basic science and Technology teachers should prepare energy-models and use same in teaching energy transformation with appropriate instructional methods in their classroom interaction.
EFFECT OF LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION ON THE BASIC SCIENCE ACHIEVEMENT OF PUPILS IN SELECTED PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN OBOT AKARA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF AKWA IBOM STATE
This study investigated the effect of language instruction on the Basic Science achievement of pupils in selected public schools in Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. In order to achieve this purpose, three objectives, research questions and null hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. Quasi-experimental design was adopted for the study. The design was considered appropriate because intact classes without randomisation were used for the groups. The total population of the study consisted of 1576 primary one pupils in 38 public primary schools in Obot Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. A sample size of 61 primary one pupils from four intact classes was used in the study. A multistage sampling technique was adopted to obtain a representative sample for the study. The instrument used for data collection was Basic Science Achievement Test (BSAT). The instrument face and content validity was determined by validates. Kuder Richardson Formula 20 was used to determine the internal consistency of Basic Science Achievement Test (BSAT) which yielded a reliability coefficient index of 0.87. Mean and standard deviation were used for answering the research questions while ANCOVA was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The study revealed that there is a significant difference in the mean achievement scores of pupils taught Basic Science using English language and those taught using Local dialect methods. There is no significant difference in the mean achievement scores of male and female pupils taught Basic Science using English language and those taught using Local dialect method. There is no significant difference in the mean achievement scores of urban and rural pupils taught Basic Science using English language and those taught using Local dialect method. It was recommended among others that the State Ministry of Education should provide instructional materials, which are needed for the implementation of Basic Science as a method of teaching.
EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY AND ACQUISITION OF SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SKILLS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN NIGER STATE
The study investigated the influence of educational technology and acquisition of social-emotional skills among University Students in Niger State. The study was guided by two research questions and null hypotheses. This study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population for this research was undergraduate students in the public universities located in Niger State with a total population of 380,877 undergraduate students. A sample of 400 undergraduate students from the four public universities in Niger state was used for the study. The sample size was determined using Taro Yamane's formula (1967) and multistage and convenience sampling techniques were adopted for study. The instrument used was Educational Technology and Acquisition of Social-Emotional Skills Questionnaire (ETASESQ). The instrument was validated by experts and trail-tested for reliability which indicated a reliability coefficient of 0.87. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions while Dependent t-test was used to test null hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The results showed that there is a significant influence of availability and utilization of educational technologies on acquisition of social-emotional skills among University Students in Niger State. Based on this finding it was concluded and recommended among other that schools should ensure that students have access to a range of educational technologies, including computers, laptops, tablets, and interactive whiteboards to projectors, audio-visual aids, and educational software among others.
Parental Motivation and Academic-Self Concept of Primary School Pupils in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State
This study investigated the relationship between parental motivation and academic self-concept of primary school pupils in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. The study was guided by four objectives, four research questions and four hypotheses. The population of the study comprised all 2, 309 primary school pupils in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. A sample size of 320 respondents was selected for the study through simple random sampling technique. Two researcher developed instruments titled “Parental Motivation Questionnaire (PMQ)” and “Pupils’ Academic Self-Concept Questionnaire (PASCQ)” were used to gather data for this study. The reliability coefficient of the study was calculated using Cronbach Alpha reliability coefficient statistics and the reliability coefficient of 0.82 and 0.74 were obtained respectively. Data collected were analysed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation(PPMC). The results obtained indicated that significant relationship exists between parental motivation and academic self-concept of primary school pupils in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. The study recommended among others, that parents should adopt effective parental motivational strategies to enhance pupils’ academic self-concept development in schools.
Copyright (c) 2025 Global Journal of Educational Research, Policy and Practice
SOCIAL INTERVENTION, COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH OBONG ITAM COMMUNITY THEATRE PROGRAMMES
Drama has long been a powerful tool for social commentary and cultural development over the years. Community theatre for instance offers a unique platform for exploring local issues and creating arts that reflect the specific social realities of the community. This paper reports on the role of drama as a tool for social intervention and cultural development using the Obong Itam Community Theatre Experience conducted by facilitators from the Department of Theatre and Film Studies, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria in May, 2023. Using a qualitative approach involving participatory action research (PAR), the paper examines how community theatre can address social issues, promote positive change and enhance cultural development. This paper further aims to highlight the knowledge gaps in longitudinal research, mechanisms of influence, contextual variability, and integrative approaches, specifically examining how community theatre intersects with other interventions to produce sustainable impact in the community. This study employs qualitative research methodology in order to gain a deeper understanding of the topic and adopts storytelling, observation and improvisation as its research design. By illuminating the unique strategies and perceived contributions of Obong Itam community theatre, this study offers valuable insights for future research on community theatre as a tool for social intervention in similar African contexts
NEED FOR GUIDANCE COUNSELLING SERVICES IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN SOKOTO STATE, NIGERIA
Primary schools are established to prepare pupils to face challenges that will make them adjust their life and face reality. Therefore, at this level of education, there is need for guidance and counseling services to guide and advise them to choose their career which will lead them to be useful members of the society. As a result, this paper is titled needs for guidance and counseling services in primary schools entails the concept of primary education, concept of guidance and counseling, needs for guidance and counseling services and challenges of guidance and counseling such as inadequate funding and resources, stigma around seeking help, lack of trained counselors, cultural sensitivity and diversity, integrating technology in counseling. The paper suggested among others that Government and other stakeholders should engage school boards to collaborate and advocate for grants and more resources to run the affairs of guidance and counseling in primary school and Guidance and counselors should possess and implement the online counseling platforms, create digital library and interactive platforms where they can communicate and learn from other professional counselors, so that they can guide their clients in primary school.
Guidance and counseling, primary school, Pupils, counselors
TEACHERS’ DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES AND COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT OF PRE-PRIMARY PUPILS IN OGBA/EGBEMA/NDONI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF RIVERS STATE.
This study investigated teacher demographic variable and cognitive development of pre-primary pupils in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, Rivers State. Specifically, the study examined how teacher educational level and age influences pupils’ cognitive development. Two hypotheses guided the study. Descriptive survey design was adopted for this study. The population of the consisted of 1,121 teachers. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 10 teachers from 10 private nursery schools, making the sampling size 100 respondent of the study. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Face and content validation was used to validate the questionnaire for instrumentation while Cronbach’s Alpha statistics was used to test the internal consistency of the instrument which yielded the coefficient index of 0.15. This indicated that the instrument was reliable and suitable for the study. The result of the analysis revealed that teachers’ educational level and age influence pupils’ cognitive development. Recommendations were made which included that government should improve teacher’s salary to encourage teachers in advancing their education and employ professional teachers especially for the pre-primary level of education.
THE IMPACT OF PORNOGRAPHIC CONTENT ON THE ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT OF TEENAGERS: A STUDY OF WESTERN NSIT SECONDARY SCHOOL, UKAI ARAN, AKWA IBOM STATE
This research explored how exposure to pornographic content affects the academic achievement of teenagers, focusing on students at Western Nsit Secondary School, Ukai Aran. The study examined two key aspects: the impact of pornographic materials on adolescents and the impact of addiction to such content on students’ academic performance. A total of 354 participants were surveyed using a cross-sectional approach. Data were gathered with a custom instrument titled “Pornographic Contents Questionnaire (PCQ)” while the academic achievement of the teenagers was assessed using their second-term results obtained from the official school assessment records. Simple linear regression was applied to analyze the results. Findings, significant at a 0.05 level, revealed that exposure to pornography and addiction to it, all notably impact academic achievement among these students. Recommendations to address these issues are provided.
PHILOSOPHICAL THEORIES AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
Curriculum as a field of study has underlying ideas, beliefs, theories and assumptions which affects its process. Curriculum development is a vital component in the educational process and its main objective is to fashion out a programme of education that will foster worthwhile ideas and values of the society. This paper therefore looks at the philosophical theories and their implications for curriculum development. Key concepts such as philosophy, theory, curriculum, curriculum development are clarified. Philosophical theories of perennialism, idealism, pragmatism, existentialism and essentialism with their implications for curriculum development are also discussed.
Philosophy, curriculum, curriculum development, theory
EFFECT OF TOKEN ECONOMY TECHNIQUE ON TRUANCY TENDENCY AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ORLU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA
This study examined the effectiveness of token economy technique on truancy tendency among secondary school students in Imo State. Two research questions and two null hypotheses tested at .05 level of significant guided the study. The study adopted a pretest-posttest, non-equivalent control group quasi-experimental design. The population for this study was a total of 116 SSII students from co-educational public secondary schools in Orlu Local Government Area. The sample size for the study comprised fifty (50) truants who were purposively chosen from two co-education public secondary schools in the area. Two instruments were used for data collection namely: SSII Class Attendance Register (CAR) and Student Truancy Survey (STS). The STS was validated by experts in the Departments of Guidance and Counselling as well as Measurement and Evaluation, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike and the reliability index established at 0.76 using Cronbach alpha statistic. Data collected from the study were analyzed using Mean and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). Results obtained from the study showed that token economy technique was indeed significantly effective in modifying truancy tendency of secondary school students who participated in the treatment ((f=3.79, p<.05). The results equally indicated that token economy technique was slightly more effective in modifying truancy tendency of the female truants than the male truants, but the difference in the effectiveness was not significant based on gender (f=4.60, p<.05). Based on the findings of this study, some recommendations were made. The researchers recommended among others that Imo State Ministry of Education should provide on–the-job training for both practicing school counsellors and therapists on the use of token economy technique in modifying truancy tendency through seminars, symposia and conferences.
Truancy, Token Economy Technique and Gender.
CONTINGENCY MANAGEMENT AND SELF-CONTROL TECHNIQUES ON THE REDUCTION OF STEALING BEHAVIOUR AMONG MIDDLE BASIC PUPILS IN ABIA STATE
The study examined Contingency Management and Self-Control Techniques on the reduction of stealing behaviour among Primary School Pupils In Abia State. The study adopted quasi-experimental research design. Four research questions and four null hypotheses guided the study. The study population comprised 1,640 primary school pupils identified in Aba education Zone as having problem of stealing hebaviour. The sample size of was 30 primary 5 school pupils that emits stealing behaviour. Stealing Behaviour Questionnaire (SBQ) was used to collect data for the study. The instrument was developed by the researchers on a 4-points scale of Always (A), Sometimes(S), Often (O) and Never(N) with weights of 4,3,2,and 1 respectively. The instrument was validated by three experts, two in the field of study and one from measurement and Evaluation, all from Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. Person Product Moment Correlation Coefficient statistical tool was employed to test the stability and internal consistency of the instrument which yielded the value of 0.82. Data were collected in three stages namely: the pre-treatment, treatment, post-test and follow-up stages. Collected data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions. ANCOVA was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.5 level of significance. Results of the study revealed that contingence management and self-control techniques reduced stealing beahviour among the primary school pupils . It also showed that the combination of CMT and SCT techniques proved more effective in the reduction of stealing behaviour among the pupils. Based on the findings conclusion was drawn that counsellors should apply the tested techniques in the treatment of stealing behaviour and other anti-social behaviours. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations made that the counsellor should develop good parenting in various homes by given their children moral upbringing and checking what they go out and come in with.
FREE AND COMPULSORY EDUCATION PROGRAMME AND TEACHERS’ EFFECTIVENESS IN TEACHING MATHEMATICS IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN ETINAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF AKWA IBOM STATE
The study investigated the influence of free and compulsory education programme and teachers' effectiveness in teaching and learning mathematics in primary schools in Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa-Ibom State. Three research questions and three null hypotheses were postulated to guide the study. Descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population of this study comprised all the 984 primary five teachers in all 41 public primary schools in Etinan Local Government Area. A sample of 246 primary five teachers in Etinan local Government Area which represents 25% approximately of the total population was used for this study selected through simple random sampling technique. Free and Compulsory Education Programme and Effectiveness in Teaching Mathematics Questionnaire (FCEPETMQ) was used as the instrument for the study. The instrument validity and reliability were determined. Cronhach's Alpha statistic was used to determine the internal consistency of the instrument which yielded reliability coefficients of 0.74 0.85, 0.73 and 0.70. Mean and standard deviation were used for answering the research questions while dependent t-test was used to test the null hypotheses at.05 level of significance. The findings showed significant influence on free and compulsory education programme and teachers' effectiveness in teaching mathematics in primary schools in Etinan Local Government Area. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that the government and relevant stakeholders should sustain and expand the Free and Compulsory Education Programme to cover more schools and pupils, to further enhance teachers' effectiveness in teaching mathematics. The government and school administrators should provide regular training and support for teachers to enhance their instructional methods and effectiveness in teaching mathematics.
Free and compulsory education, teachers’ effectiveness, school administrators
MOBILE PHONES USAGE AS SCAFFOLDING STRATEGY FOR CHILDREN’S ACQUISITION OF NUMERIC SKILLS IN PUBLIC EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRES IN SOKOTO STATE, NIGERIA
This study investigated the effect of using mobile phones to scaffold the acquisition of number skills among children in public early childhood education schools. The study has four objectives, four research questions and four null hypotheses. The experiment lasted for four weeks using two groups of 80 children each selected from 10 public ECE schools located within Sokoto metropolis. One group was labeled as the experimental group and was taught number counting using mobile phones and the other group was labeled as the control group and was taught the same content using the traditional chalk and talk method. The t-test statistics was used in the analysis of data. The result revealed the existence of significant mean difference in the ability to identify and count numbers between pupils in the two groups, with pupils in the treatment group performing better. The result also shows that there is statistically significant difference in the ability to identify or count numbers between male and female children in ECE schools. Generally, the result indicated that teaching numeric skills using mobile phones as a scaffolding strategy is more effective than the using the traditional chalk and talk method. The study recommends among other things that, teachers in public ECE schools in Sokoto state should endeavor to use scaffolding strategies in order to foster learning in terms of developing numeric skills among children. Equally, the Sokoto state government should equip all public ECE schools in the state with modern technological tools and ECE teachers should be given free smart mobile phones as motivational incentives to facilitate the use of such devices for effective instructional delivery.
PHONICS AND LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT OF PRESCHOOLERS IN RIVERS EAST SENATORIAL DISTRICT, NIGERIA
The study investigated phonics and language development of preschoolers in Rivers East Senatorial District. A pre-test post-test control group quasi-experimental research design was used. Two research questions and two corresponding hypotheses guided the study. The population of the study was 2,399 preschoolers. The sample of the study consisted of 90 preschoolers randomly selected and assigned to experimental and control groups. The sample was selected using simple random sampling technique and purposive sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was the researcher-designed observation checklist which was validated. The instrument had a reliability coefficient of 0.67. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation (SD) and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). The findings of the study showed that the experimental group who were taught using the synthetic phonics and analytical instructional strategies performed better than those taught with the conventional method. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made which include that teachers should be trained on the use of the synthetic phonics method which is among the current trends in helping children begin to read and write quite early.
SHARED READING STRATEGY AND READING COMPREHENSION ABILITY OF PRIMARY ONE PUPILS IN PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN UYO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA
This study investigated the effect of shared reading strategy on reading comprehension ability of pupils in public primary school in Uyo Local Government Area. To achieve this purpose, five specific objectives and five corresponding research questions were raised to guide the study. Five null hypotheses were postulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study utilized the quasi-experimental design, called the Non-equivalent control group design. The population of the study will consist of 6,071 primary four pupils in all the 47 public primary schools in Uyo Local Government Area. A sample of 160 primary four pupils from four intact classes was used in the study. They were randomly selected using multi-stage sampling technique. The instrument used for data collection in this study was titled “Reading Comprehension Achievement Test (RCAT)”. The RCAT was administered to 160 pupils and their answers were scored and used for analysis. Mean was used to answer the research questions. While the hypotheses were tested, using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) at .05 level of significance. The study revealed that pupils exposed to shared reading strategy performed better overall in pupils’ reading comprehension skills of ability to answer questions, find main ideas, follow directions, comprehend words and summarize a passage than those exposed to conventional method. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that teachers should integrate shared reading strategy into reading activity to enhance pupils’ ability to answer questions, find the main ideas, follow directions, comprehend word meanings and make summaries from a passage.
SOCIAL FACTORS AND DRUG ADDICTION AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN AKWA IBOM STATE
The study examined social factors and drug addiction among university students in Akwa Ibom State. Three objectives were formulated to guide the study. Three research questions were raised and three hypotheses were formulated in line with the objectives. The correlation research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study consisted of all the 33942 undergraduate students from Akwa Ibom State University and University of Uyo of the 2023/2024 academic session. A sample size of 400 students was selected for the study using multi-stage sampling technique. The sample for the study consisted of 400 year three students selected from the two universities. Multi-stage sampling technique was used for the selection of the students. A researcher-developed instrument tagged “Social Factors and Drug Addiction among University Students Questionnaire (SFDAUSQ)” was used for data collection. Face validity was established for the instrument. A reliability coefficient of 0.83 was obtained for the instrument, using Cronbach Alpha. Values of R and R2 of Simple linear regression analysis were used to answer the research questions while the F-value was used to test the hypotheses. Each of the hypotheses was tested at .05 level of significance. The findings of the study showed that peer group significantly predicts drug addiction among university students in Akwa Ibom State; social media significantly predict drug addiction among university students in Akwa Ibom State; and moral belief significantly predicts drug addiction among university students in Akwa Ibom State. Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that social factors predict drug addiction among university students in Akwa Ibom State. It was recommended among others that, mental health professionals should offer counseling services that focus on building resilience against peer pressure and provide strategies for students to develop a positive self-identity that is not reliant on harmful group behaviours.
INSTRUCTIONAL MEDIA AND PRESCHOOLERS’ READING READINESS IN PUBLIC EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRES IN UYO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA
This study investigated the relationship between instructional media and preschoolers’ reading readiness in public Early Childhood Centres in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Four research questions and four null hypotheses were postulated to guide the study. Correlational research design was used for this study. The population of the study consisted of all 490 caregivers and 3,723 ECC II pupils in all the 49 public primary schools in Uyo Local Government Area. A sample size of 280 comprising 40 caregivers and 240 ECC II pupils selected through simple sampling technique were used for the study. The instruments used for data collection in this study were Instructional Media Questionnaire (IMQ) and Reading Readiness Assessment Test (RRAT). This was personally administered by the researcher with the help of teachers who served as research assistants. Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used for answering the research questions by comparing the values with the extent scale of correlation also used for testing the hypotheses by comparing it with the critical-r-value at .05 level of significance. The findings revealed significant relationship between instructional media in respect to (print, audio, visual, audio-visual) and preschoolers’ reading readiness in public Early Childhood Centres in Uyo Local Government Area. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended, among others, that teachers should utilise instructional media in classroom instruction. Using instructional media in classroom instruction helps pupils to retain and remember what they had learnt as those media appeal to the five sensory organs.
KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF PREGNANT WOMEN TOWARDS ANTENATAL PHYSICAL EXERCISE IN UYO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA
The study investigated the knowledge and attitude of pregnant women towards antenatal physical exercise in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria with four research questions and two null hypotheses tested at 0.05 level of significance. This study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The study population consisted of 1,206 pregnant women from the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UTTH) who registered for antenatal clinic services. A sample size of 400 pregnant women was selected using simple random sampling technique, specifically the hat and draw method, to give all members of the study population an equal chance of being selected. The sample size was determined using Taro Yamane's (1994) formula. A researcher-designed instrument, the Knowledge and Attitude toward Antenatal Physical Exercise Questionnaire (KAAPEQ), was used for data collection.. KAAPEQ was validated by three experts and had reliability indices of 0.87 and 0.79 using Cronbach Alpha Statistic.. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions, while two-way ANOVA was used to test null hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The results revealed that both age and educational background significantly influence pregnant women's attitudes towards antenatal physical exercise in Uyo Local Government Area. based on the findings of this study, it was recommended among others that healthcare providers should incorporate education and promotion of antenatal physical exercise into routine prenatal care.Policymakers should develop and implement policies supporting antenatal physical exercise programs in healthcare facilities and communities.
EXPLORING THE UTILIZATION OF TECHNOLOGY IN SECONDARY SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH
The study explored the extent of utilization of technology in secondary school administration for economic growth in Abakaliki education zone of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Descriptive survey design was adopted in conducting the study. Data were collected from all the 59 public secondary school administrators in the zone. The census approach was adopted in drawing the population because they were manageable. A 20-item instrument titled: Utilization of Technology in Secondary School Administration for Economic Growth Survey (UTSSAEGS) was developed, validated and employed for data collection. The instrument was tested for reliability using Cronbach Alpha and a statistical index of .89 which was adjudged good enough for data collection was obtained. The collected data were analysed using mean and standard deviation. Findings revealed that that the extent of utilization of technology in secondary school administration, records keeping and financial management in the study area is quite limited according to the perceptions of participants. It was also found that male administrators on average reported greater technology utilization than females in the zone, which conclusively suggests the presence of potential gender-based disparities in access, comfort, or attitudes towards technology integration within the educational administration. It is therefore recommended amongst others that the State government should develop and implement gender-inclusive policies and programmes that promote equal access, opportunities, and skills development in technology utilization for both male and female school administrators, ensuring equity in the adoption and application of digital tools in secondary school administration for economic growth.
Technology utilization, Secondary school administration, Educational technology, Economic growth, Ebonyi state
MANAGEMENT OF E-LEARNING TECHNOLOGIES FOR EFFECTIVE INSTRUCTIONAL DELIVERY IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
This study examines the management of smartboards and projectors as e-learning technologies for effective instructional delivery in public universities in Rivers State. The increasing integration of these digital tools in higher education has revolutionized teaching and learning, yet their adoption and utilisation remain limited due to infrastructural deficiencies, lack of technical support, and inadequate training for lecturers. Two objectives, two research questions and two hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from a sample of 344 lecturers across three public universities. Findings revealed that while smartboards and projectors enhance interactive learning and improve student engagement, challenges such as inconsistent power supply, limited availability of equipment, and lecturers’ reluctance to transition from traditional methods hinder their optimal use. The study recommends increased investment in infrastructure, continuous professional development for lecturers, and strategic institutional policies to support the integration of smartboards and projectors in instructional delivery. Addressing these challenges will improve the quality of education and align university teaching with global digital learning standards.
GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING: A ROAD MAP TO SUCCESSFUL INCLUSIVE TEACHING AND LEARNING IN EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE EDUCATION FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Human beings are created in diverse ways: some are tall, some are short, some are extroverts, some are introverts, some are gifted, some are disabled etc. A human is one who has the characteristics of a living thing. Human beings should live together and learn together. Hence, counseling is the road map to successful inclusive teaching and learning. Human beings are born to help each other to function. Learners who have special needs should be taught alongside other learners to the extent the special needs learn to function normally and their self-esteem enhanced. For a successful inclusive teaching and learning, the researchers recommend that every level of education should have a counseling psychologist. Reality therapy and social learning therapy are recommended to be used by counselors.
Counselling, roadmap, inclusive teaching and learning, early childhood education, national development
BARRIERS TO EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF SPORTS PROGRAMMES AND PARTICIPATION FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS
This study examined the barriers to implementing effective sports programmes for students with disabilities in public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study was guided by two objectives, research questions and hypotheses, which were to identify the main barriers hindering the implementation of effective sports programmes for students with disabilities in public secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, and evaluate how teacher training and facility availability affect the effectiveness and inclusiveness of these programmes. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. Data were collected from 625 students using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that funding for inclusive sports programmes is very limited, adaptive equipment is rarely available, and physical accessibility to sports facilities is slightly adequate. Teacher training was minimal, and facilities were deemed slightly effective in promoting inclusiveness. Inferential analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between the availability of specialized facilities and programme effectiveness (χ2 = 37.472 at df = 24, p < .05. ), as well as a notable influence of teacher training on student participation (χ2 is 29.631 at df = 16, p < .05.). Recommendations included increased funding, teacher training in inclusive sports, improved facility accessibility, and the provision of adaptive sports equipment. These measures aimed to create an inclusive environment where students with disabilities can fully benefit from sports programmes.
Sports programmes, Effective implementation, Students with disabilities, Barriers, Public Secondary Schools, Physical Fitness
PARENTAL MOTIVATION AND ACADEMIC SELF-CONCEPT OF PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS IN UYO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, AKWA IBOM STATE