ASSESSMENT OF AVAILABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS FOR TEACHING CHEMISTRY IN SOME SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF DARAMALO WOREDA SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The availability and effective utilization of instructional materials in chemistry education are vital for engaging students, reinforcing theoretical knowledge and facilitating practical experimentation. This study assessed the availability and utilization of instructional materials for teaching chemistry in selected secondary schools of Daramalo Woreda, Southern Ethiopia. To achieve the intended objective of this study a descriptive survey design was used to assess the current status, utilization, challenges and strategies that enhance instructional materials for teaching chemistry, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The main instrument of data collection was questionnaire and interview. 248 respondents were used for the study. In the selection of the sample population simple random sampling were used for students and purposive sampling were used for chemistry teachers, laboratory technicians, pedagogical center heads and school principals. The data was presented in percentage, mean and standard deviations. The study revealed that most secondary schools in Daramalo woreda have lack of basic instructional materials like computer and internet service, laboratory equipments and chemicals. On the other hand, a majority of the schools have visual aids made from local materials. From the study findings it is apparent that many schools in the study area do not use appropriate instructional materials. challenges faced by teachers in accessing and utilizing instructional materials were identified, including low availability rates, budget constraints and limitations in integrating technology-based materials. Recommendations were provided to address this issue, including allocating more resources, making constant use of instructional materials, increasing funding, providing professional development and integrating technology based materials into the classroom.