The effect of hands-on laboratory activities on secondary school students’ performance in STEM subjects in Kachia LGA, Kaduna State
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Background of the Study
Hands-on laboratory activities are essential components of STEM education, providing students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge through practical experimentation. In Kachia LGA, Kaduna State, secondary schools are increasingly incorporating laboratory work into their STEM curricula to enhance student understanding and foster critical thinking. These activities encourage active learning, enabling students to conduct experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions based on empirical evidence (Adebayo, 2023). Research indicates that when students engage in hands-on learning, they develop a deeper understanding of complex scientific concepts and improve their problem-solving skills. In contrast to traditional lecture-based instruction, laboratory activities offer an interactive and dynamic learning environment that can boost student motivation and academic performance. However, the effectiveness of hands-on laboratory activities in improving student outcomes in Kachia LGA is challenged by factors such as inadequate laboratory facilities, insufficient funding, and a lack of properly trained laboratory instructors (Ibrahim, 2024). Additionally, disparities in resource allocation among schools mean that not all students have equal access to quality laboratory experiences, which may contribute to varying performance levels across the region. This study aims to assess the impact of hands-on laboratory activities on secondary school students’ performance in STEM subjects. By evaluating the correlation between laboratory engagement and academic achievement, the research seeks to identify key factors that enhance or hinder the effectiveness of practical learning experiences. The ultimate goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations for optimizing laboratory resources and teaching practices to improve student performance in STEM subjects in Kachia LGA (Ibrahim, 2024; Musa, 2025).
Statement of the Problem (300 words)
Despite the recognized benefits of hands-on laboratory activities, secondary schools in Kachia LGA continue to face significant challenges in providing quality laboratory experiences for students. Many schools operate with outdated or poorly maintained laboratory equipment, which limits the scope and effectiveness of experimental activities (Adebayo, 2023). Additionally, the high cost of modern laboratory instruments and reagents often results in inadequate funding, leaving schools unable to update or expand their facilities. Teachers frequently report that the lack of adequate training and technical support further hampers the integration of practical laboratory work into the STEM curriculum. This situation creates an uneven educational landscape where students in better-equipped schools perform significantly better in STEM subjects compared to those in under-resourced institutions. Consequently, the overall quality of STEM education in Kachia LGA is compromised, and students may not be adequately prepared for higher education or careers in science and technology. This study seeks to investigate the extent to which hands-on laboratory activities influence student performance in STEM subjects, with a particular focus on identifying the key infrastructural and pedagogical challenges that need to be addressed. By analyzing performance data and gathering insights from teachers and students, the research aims to provide actionable recommendations for improving laboratory experiences and enhancing academic outcomes in STEM disciplines (Adebayo, 2023; Musa, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
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To assess the availability and quality of laboratory facilities in secondary schools in Kachia LGA.
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To evaluate the impact of hands-on laboratory activities on student performance in STEM subjects.
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To recommend strategies for improving laboratory experiences and student outcomes.
Research Questions
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What is the current state of laboratory facilities in secondary schools in Kachia LGA?
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How do hands-on laboratory activities affect student performance in STEM subjects?
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What improvements can be made to enhance the effectiveness of laboratory activities?
Research Hypotheses
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H₁: Schools with well-equipped laboratories exhibit higher student performance in STEM subjects.
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H₂: Regular hands-on laboratory activities positively impact students’ understanding of STEM concepts.
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H₃: Inadequate laboratory resources are negatively correlated with academic achievement in STEM.
Significance of the Study (100 words)
This study is significant as it examines the impact of hands-on laboratory activities on student performance in STEM subjects in Kachia LGA. The findings will offer crucial insights into the importance of practical learning experiences and help policymakers and educators improve laboratory infrastructure and teaching methods. By identifying key challenges and recommending effective interventions, the research aims to enhance the overall quality of STEM education, thereby better preparing students for future academic and professional pursuits.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to evaluating hands-on laboratory activities in secondary schools within Kachia LGA, Kaduna State. It focuses exclusively on laboratory experiences and does not consider other aspects of STEM instruction.
Definitions of Terms
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Hands-on Laboratory Activities: Practical experiments and exercises conducted in a laboratory setting.
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Student Performance: Measurable academic outcomes in STEM subjects.
Laboratory Facilities: Physical and technical resources available for conducting scientific experiments
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