ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
The teaching of “individual obligations in the family” and students’ performance of household chores a study of Senior High School students in the Tema Metropolis

The purpose of this study is to find out the impact of the “teaching of individual obligation in the Family” on the attitudes of SHS students towards the performance of household chores in their homes. The study was conducted at Tema Metropolis. The descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted for this study. The method was chosen because the study did not focus on causal effects in the population. Also it was chosen because it is based on a representative sample of the population, the results can be generalized to the overall population from which the sample came. A Sample size of 240 first year students and 260 second year students was used for the study. But the researcher sampled 100 first years and 100 second years because of time and resources. The simple random sampling was adopted for this study. Questionnaire and focus group discussions were used to gather information for the study. STATA Statistical Software Package and Microsoft Excel was used for the collation and presentation of the results. The results revealed some household chores were seen by the respondents as running errands for their parents/guardians, cooking, ironing of clothes and baby-sitting. In addition, the majority of respondents, irrespective of their academic year of study, agreed that it is their responsibility to co-operate with their parent/guardian at home. The findings also showed that most of the respondents felt they are obliged to do it. It was recommended that a forum should be created to educate parents/guardians on how to nurture and engage their children in chores in order not to affect their attitude of academic performance. Also further research should consider obligations in the family aside household chores. Finally, it was recommended that the topic “Individual obligations in the family” should be maintained to serve as formal confirmation of what they already know and other moral teachings should be added to build morally sound youth for our society.

Source: UEW
Teaching reading comprehension to second language learners a case of Rashadiyya Islamic JHS

The purpose of this study is to enhance reading comprehension skills in students of Rashadiyya Islamic Junior High School. The objectives of the study are; to identify challenges students encounter in reading comprehension, adopt effective comprehension strategies to overcome challenges students encounter in reading comprehension and identify effects of challenges on the performance of students. The study adopted the qualitative research approach with an interview guide and observation technique. The sample is made up of thirty-six (36) students drawn from one hundred and forty-seven students. The findings of the study showed that the phonic technique, which is commonly used for teaching reading at all levels, is the greatest strategy for teaching students to enhance their reading comprehension. It further showed that students face various levels of difficulties which include mispronunciation and word substitution; skipping and omitting words while reading, a limited grasp of English alphabet and sounds. The study concludes that reading difficulties faced by Basic 8 students of Rashadiyya Islamic Junior High School could be significant barriers to the development of effective reading comprehension skills among the students. The study recommends that English Language teachers of Rashadiyya Islamic Junior High School should facilitate students learning using phonic method of teaching reading.

Source: UEW
Teaching social studies for affective outcome at Tema Methodist day senior high school in the greater Accra region

This study examined how Social Studies can be taught to lead to affective outcome among students of Tema Methodist Day Senior High School. The primary purpose of Social Studies is to help young people to develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of culturally diverse democratic societies in an interdependent world. Even though Social Studies has been studied as a core subject in Senior Secondary Schools since the late 1990’s, the said purpose (thus, attitudinal change) for its introduction has not been achieved. The Teaching Syllabus for Social Studies still identified some irresponsible behaviours of adolescents in Ghana to include: Pre-marital sex, prostitution, armed robbery, drunkenness, drug abuse, homosexuality (sodomy and lesbianism or “supism”), examination malpractices, among others. The target population comprised students and Social Studies teachers of Tema Methodist Day Senior High School. The study used concurrent design and sampled 250 students and 10 Social Studies teachers. Simple random and census sampling techniques were used to select the sample of students and teachers respectively to answer the questionnaire for the work. It was revealed that teachers set questions that enhance the development of students’ conceptual understanding or problem-solving skills. However, documentary analysis of their end of term examination papers revealed otherwise. Moreover, the study revealed that the conception of students and teachers were not entirely different from previous studies conducted. Students, to a higher extent, indicated, that Social Studies is meant to equip learners with knowledge. Half of the teachers agreed with the students while the other set disagreed. Majority of the teachers too strongly agreed and agreed that Social Studies is meant to equip learners with socio-civic, personal and interpersonal skills. Finally, assessment was the main challenge faced by Social Studies teachers. Higher percentage of the students disagrees or uncertain whether their teachers assess them effectively. Similarly, students were uncertain about the effectiveness of anecdotal records. There were discrepancies between what teachers said they assessed and what they actually assessed. It was recommended that there is the need to plan and conduct effective professional development initiatives, including both pre-and in-service training, to transform teaching to be in line with the current theories of teaching, learning and assessment in Social Studies. Social Studies teachers should predominantly employ student-centered approaches when delivering lessons to clear misconceptions students hold in order for them to achieve high academic outcomes. The Ghana Education Service (GES) should organize in-service training for teachers on regular basis on how to develop their pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) due to the role it plays in teaching and learning.

Source: UEW
Teaching strategies for deaf students at the University Basic Practice School Winneba, Ghana

The purpose of the study was to investigate the strategies teachers adapt for learners who are deaf at the University Practice South Inclusive Basic school in Winneba. The study was qualitative, which utilized a case study design with interview and observation as the data collection procedures. A purposive sampling technique was used to select ten (10) participants comprising nine (9) teachers and the head teacher who teach children who are deaf at the University Practice South Inclusive Basic school in Winneba. Data from the study were analysed based on themes that emerged from the study. Findings from the study revealed that teachers used strategies such as multi-sensory approach during teaching. It was also revealed that the teachers allowed additional time on task and adjusted the pace of lesson delivery. Again, the result of study revealed the specific areas of the curriculum teachers adapt for learners who are deaf which include; modifying reading contents, the use of alternate learning materials and development of specific study guide. However, some factors affect teachers adaption strategies for learners who are deaf in the inclusive school which include inadequate qualified personnel, large class sizes as well as limited time factor. The study recommended that teachers teaching in inclusive schools should continuously use strategies such as the multi-sensory approach, allow additional time on task and adjust the pace of delivery during teaching to help the children who are deaf gain deeper understanding and retention of concepts taught. Again, teachers should endeavour to adapt specific areas of the curriculum such as the use of alternate materials in their teaching, adapt reading content to learner’s learning styles to aid effective reading skills among the children who are deaf. Lastly, head teachers should endeavour to find solution to the problem of inadequate qualified personnel, large class sizes, as well as inadequate contact time so that teachers adaptation strategies would be beneficial to learners.

Source: UEW
Teaching the skills of translating idiomatic expressions among EFL undergraduate students in université des lettres et des sciences humaines de Bamako

The purpose of this study was to explore difficulties encountered by undergraduate learners of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in translating idiomatic expressions into French (L2). The goal was to identify the specific difficulties they pose to learners. Identifying the causes of the difficulties experienced by EFL undergraduate students in translating idiomatic expressions into French and proposing translation-enhancing strategies for idioms is thought to be of interest to learners and teachers alike. The study was designed as a qualitative exploratory case study. The key findings derived from analysis by the researcher revealed that EFL undergraduate students find it particularly difficult to recognise and understand idiomatic expressions in English, and recreate them accurately in French. In the first place, the study has shown that EFL learners fail to recognise that idiomatic expressions make a whole semantic unit. They transfer the lexicogrammatical patterns of English idioms to French, on the other hand. As a result of this two-faceted difficulty, i.e.failure to recognise idioms as polylexical structures with semanticunity and strong tendency for reproducing source-text lexicogrammatical patterns, learners resort predominantly to paraphrasing as a translation strategy for rendering idiomatic expressions. In tackling the difficult task of idiom translation, omission and FLidiomatic expression transfer into target text (L2) are widely employedby undergraduate students. In addition to identifying translation difficulties encountered by students, the present study also suggests idiom translation-enhancing solutions through an integrated approach to idioms, with a wider, systematic, exposure to idiomatic expressions through translation classes targeting idioms and explicit idiom instruction in readingcomprehension and linguistics courses. Another solution for enhancing skills in idiomatic expression translation is teacher preparation for translation classes. Additional findings are described in the dissertation. These findings relate in particular to word class divergence and collocational patterns as recurrent translation difficulties experienced by students. In other words, they fail to make the lexicogrammatical transformations required in translation process and translate predominantly word class for word class, as well as they combine words following the source-text collocational patterns, resulting in unnatural, atypical phrasesin French. Finally, a systematic approach to idiom translation strategies for EFL undergraduate learners has been recommended. This approach consists of a step-by step introduction to idiom translation strategies based on the closeness of formal and semantic features characteristic of idiomatic expressions. The study includes the need and recommendations for further studies.

Source: UEW
Technical efficiency of salt production in Ghana the case of small-scale salt producers in Elmina

Technical efficiency of resource-use, particularly in salt production is a major concern for the level of productivity and profitability of salt miners depend on it. Thus, the study was conducted to estimate the level of technical efficiency among small scale salt producers in Elmina. The study used the entire population of 96 salt producers in Elmina. The study reveals that, Cobb-Douglas stochastic production frontier best fits small scale salt producers in Elmina. The results of the mean technical efficiency reveal that, small scale salt producers were not fully technically efficient as the mean technical efficiency is 37.8%. Among the five (5) salt socio-economic variables employed, the technical efficiency model indicates that the number of ponds is statistically significant at 1%, but inversely correlated with technical efficiency. However, the coefficient of interest paid on loans is negative but significant at 5%. Moreover, level of education and distance from the campsite to homestead are significant at 10% levels and positive. The results of the study suggest that, number of ponds and interest paid on loans play an integral role in increasing the level of technical efficiency among small-scale salt producers in Elmina. The major recommendations of the study include Government, Minerals Commission and District Assembly should liaise with various financial institutions to provide interest free loans or loans at affordable interest rate to small-scale salt producers to undertake capital and labour investment as a panacea for increasing efficiency. Also, the Minerals Commission, District Assembly and chiefs should educate the small-scale salt producers on the need to develop and mine few walls (ponds) since they are under resourced. This will help improve on the technical efficiency among the small-scale salt miners in Elmina.

Source: UEW
Technical efficiency of salt production in Ghana, the case of small-scale salt producers in Elmina

Technical efficiency of resource-use, particularly in salt production is a major concern for the level of productivity and profitability of salt miners depend on it. Thus, the study was conducted to estimate the level of technical efficiency among small scale salt producers in Elmina. The study used the entire population of 96 salt producers in Elmina. The study reveals that, Cobb-Douglas stochastic production frontier best fits small scale salt producers in Elmina. The results of the mean technical efficiency reveal that, small scale salt producers were not fully technically efficient as the mean technical efficiency is 37.8%. Among the five (5) salt socio-economic variables employed, the technical efficiency model indicates that the number of ponds is statistically significant at 1%, but inversely correlated with technical efficiency. However, the coefficient of interest paid on loans is negative but significant at 5%. Moreover, level of education and distance from the campsite to homestead are significant at 10% levels and positive. The results of the study suggest that, number of ponds and interest paid on loans play an integral role in increasing the level of technical efficiency among small-scale salt producers in Elmina. The major recommendations of the study include Government, Minerals Commission and District Assembly should liaise with various financial institutions to provide interest free loans or loans at affordable interest rate to small-scale salt producers to undertake capital and labour investment as a panacea for increasing efficiency. Also, the Minerals Commission, District Assembly and chiefs should educate the small-scale salt producers on the need to develop and mine few walls (ponds) since they are under resourced. This will help improve on the technical efficiency among the small-scale salt miners in Elmina.

Source: UEW
Technical expertise development in secondary technical schools: Effects of ICT-enhanced 4C/ID learning environments

This study assessed the effectiveness of powerful learning environments (PLE), developed in line with the specifications of the 4C/ID-model, and the additional effect of ICT for fostering the development of technical expertise in traditional Ghanaian classrooms. The study had a one by one by two pretest posttest quasi experimental design. Three functionally equivalent classes of students from three similar (secondary technical) schools were randomly exposed to three different treatments. The participants consisted of 144 (44, 47, 53) students (mean age was 18.1). The pilot study, served to validate and revise the materials, and to retrain teachers. The main study, consisted of six sessions, conducted in regular classrooms of three schools to test the formulated hypotheses. The results indicate that a 4C/ID PLE promotes the development of technical expertise in secondary technical education better than teaching designed in line with classical instructional design principles. Moreover, results reveal no significant difference of learning gains between the 4C/ID PLE with ICT group and the 4C/ID PLE without ICT group. Finally, the theoretical, research, and practical implications of the results for the instructional design and technology community as well as educational practice are discussed. � 2006 IEEE.

Source: UEW
Techno-economic and environmental analysis of power generation expansion plan of Ghana

This paper examines the current electrical generation expansion plan of Ghana and compares it with proposed expansion pathways with higher penetration of Renewable Energy Technologies. An adaptation of Schwartz's Scenario Methodology was used to develop the scenarios which were then analysed using the Long-range Alternatives Planning (LEAP) model. Each of the scenarios represents policy options for generation expansion in Ghana up to 2040. Energy, economic and environmental analysis of the three alternative scenarios compared to the base scenarios was undertaken. Sensitivity results show that, if the country were to follow the generation expansion path described in the renewable energy scenarios, it could reap economic benefits of 0.5�13.23% depending on the developments in fuel prices and renewable technology capital cost. The analysis further quantifies benefits to be derived from a reduction in Greenhouse gases of the scenarios. Policy implications for the generation system of Ghana based on the results are also discussed. � 2017 Elsevier Ltd

Source: UEW
Technological social intervention, the case of “Better Ghana Agenda” laptop on teaching and learning at the Basic Schools in the Wenchi Municipality

Technological intervention is seen as any electronic item or equipment or application that is used to increase or maintain and or improve daily living work/productivity capabilities of children/students. The study assessed the impact of the ―Better Ghana agenda laptops‖ on teaching and learning in basic schools in the Wenchi municipality, the challenges in the implementation of the policy and to find out the criteria used for the distribution of the laptops. Specifically, 100 students from Junior High School (JHS) were randomly selected together with 19 ICT teachers in Wenchi municipality in Brong Ahafo region of Ghana. Both questionnaire and interview were used for gathering data. The data collected were analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS). Findings of the study showed both ICT teachers and students said that there is no clear cut lay down criteria used in the distribution of the laptops but the laptops has improved both students and ICT teacher‘s application of ICT knowledge in teaching and learning. However, the implementation of the policy met some challenges like the lack of ICT laboratories, lack of electricity in most schools; lack of internet connectivity among others is preventing the smooth implementation of the policy. Therefore, to have a smooth implementation of such an important policy in the Wenchi Municipality, it is important that all these challenges are brought to the barest minimum. It is recommended that, ICT laboratories should be provided in each basic school or ICT resource centres should be provided in each district to be used by both students and ICT teachers. Again, clear criteria should be provided to the Municipal Directorate of Education to be used in the distribution of laptops to ensure transparency.

Source: UEW
Technology and its effect on human capital within the financial- service industry in Ghana the case of Ejuraman and Asokore Rural Bank Limited

Technology transfer has brought about a revolution in the functioning of banks as it offers major opportunities to banks and their customers. This has made the transition to electronic banking a necessity for banks in order to be viable. Despite its benefits, developing countries still lag behind in the adoption of technology transfer. This study therefore seeks to examine technology transfer and its effect on human capital within the financial service industry in Ghana, focusing on Ejuraman rural bank and Asokore rural bank ltd. The study made use of questionnaires to collect data from staff of the selected banks. The study employed a descriptive research method, 75 respondents were consulted and primary data was used. The findings indicate that the banks have deployed various technology transfer, the staff does not have adequate training to assist customers who have problems with their products and services, The study recommends that the banks should train its staff on the use and the benefits associated with technology transfer adoption so that they can assist customers when the need arise, the banks should always update their information security systems to mitigate the occurrence of cyber-attacks. The banks should invest in cyber security infrastructure to safeguard their information system and the regulators should have robust legislation to govern all electronic transactions in the country. The bank management must organize seminars, to solicit the views of the employees when designing and deploying new technology to avoid some of the challenges identified.

Source: UEW
Technology and its effect on human capital within the financial- service industry in Ghana, the case of Ejuraman and Asokore rural bank limited

Technology transfer has brought about a revolution in the functioning of banks as it offers major opportunities to banks and their customers. This has made the transition to electronic banking a necessity for banks in order to be viable. Despite its benefits, developing countries still lag behind in the adoption of technology transfer. This study therefore seeks to examine technology transfer and its effect on human capital within the financial service industry in Ghana, focusing on Ejuraman rural bank and Asokore rural bank ltd. The study made use of questionnaires to collect data from staff of the selected banks. The study employed a descriptive research method, 75 respondents were consulted and primary data was used. The findings indicate that the banks have deployed various technology transfer, the staff does not have adequate training to assist customers who have problems with their products and services, The study recommends that the banks should train its staff on the use and the benefits associated with technology transfer adoption so that they can assist customers when the need arise, the banks should always update their information security systems to mitigate the occurrence of cyber-attacks. The banks should invest in cyber security infrastructure to safeguard their information system and the regulators should have robust legislation to govern all electronic transactions in the country. The bank management must organize seminars, to solicit the views of the employees when designing and deploying new technology to avoid some of the challenges identified.

Source: UEW