Extent of science process skills mastery among senior secondary Biology students in Delta South Senatorial District, Delta State, Nigeria
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study examines how senior secondary school (SSS) Biology students in Delta South Senatorial District, Delta State, Nigeria acquire science process skills (SPS), paying particular attention to the effects of gender and school location. Although recent curriculum reforms promote practical, learner-centred Biology instruction, students’ outcomes remain below expectations, largely due to limited hands-on experience. Adopting a descriptive survey approach, data were gathered from 720 students in both rural and urban schools using the Science Process Skills Knowledge Test in Biology (SPSKTB). The findings showed that learners generally demonstrated a moderately high level of SPS acquisition, with male and rural students significantly outperforming female and urban students. These results point to notable gender and location gaps in practical skill development, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive pedagogies and better infrastructural support especially in rural contexts. Adequate laboratory facilities, reasonable class sizes, and ongoing teacher training in inquiry-driven and practical instructional methods were identified as key factors for strengthening SPS acquisition. This study helps close the divide between curriculum intentions and classroom realities by offering both policy and instructional recommendations to improve science learning. The implications emphasize the importance of equity-driven strategies, improved resource distribution, and sustained professional development to promote inclusive and effective Biology education in Nigerian secondary schools.
DOI: 10.64726/snykzr20
Institutions: Edwin Clark University, College of Education Warri
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7202292896