Relationship Between Student Motivation, Teaching Methods, and Academic Performance in Biology at Tepa Senior High School, Ghana
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: This study investigated how different teaching methods and levels of student motivation affect academic achievement in learning the respiratory system in biology at Tepa Senior High School, Ghana. Employing a quasi-experimental design, 120 Form Three biology students were divided into experimental and control groups. Data were gathered through questionnaires, document reviews, and pre- and post-tests. The experimental group was instructed through practical, hands-on activities, while the control group received traditional lecture-based teaching. Findings indicated that 90% of students favored the practical approach. The overall mean score of 4.155 reflected high motivation among learners. Post-test results further showed that students in the experimental group outperformed those in the control group, with average scores of 73.60 and 53.40, respectively. ANOVA analysis revealed a statistically significant difference between the groups (F(3,36) = 17.606, p < .001), signifying that the practical teaching method substantially enhanced both motivation and academic performance. The study concludes that incorporating practical, activity-oriented methods in biology instruction promotes deeper understanding, engagement, and achievement among students. It recommends that Ghanaian schools adopt student-centered, experiential learning strategies, equip laboratories adequately, and encourage teachers to integrate hands-on techniques to make science learning more effective and enjoyable.
Authors: Aduo Frank, Rockson Ofori Amanfo, Frank Blessed Amenyeke, Eric Asare Jnr, Ebenezer Wirekoh Brobbey
Institution: University of Education, Winneba
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4415612052