IMPROVING PRACTICAL PHYSICS COMPONENTS FOR TRAINEE TEACHERS IN COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Abstract Innovation, a catalyst to development, is tightly coupled to change, and is a key policy and strategic issue. Practical activities and classroom teaching of Physics concepts play complementary roles in effective teaching and meaningful learning. The level of practical activities in physics as contained in the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) minimum standard for Colleges of Education in Nigeria is grossly inadequate. Less than 20 percent of concepts of physics are being practically demonstrated. This is an impediment towards effective teaching and meaningful learning, and hence quality of physics education in Nigeria. There is therefore a great need for Physics Curriculum to be strengthened by increasing the number of practical courses students of Physics in NCE are exposed to while in training, for greater and deeper understanding of laws, principles and concepts of physics and its applicability. This will, no doubt, be a step in the right direction towards improving the quality of teachers and Physics education in Colleges of Education in the nation. Towards this end, number of practical courses offered by NCE physics students should be increased and functional modern laboratories, adequately stocked with contemporary equipment/apparatus should be made available in all the Colleges of Education in Nigeria.

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