ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Sex differences and teachers’ awareness of school -based assessment among Senior High Schools in Ho Municipality

This study sought to investigate significant sex differences in students’ achievement scores in core mathematics as measured by the School-Based Assessment System. It also investigated the extent to which mathematics teachers were aware and conversant with the provision for the SBA. A survey method was used and simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used to select three Senior High Schools in the Ho Municipality. A total of 194 students had their assessment information used for the study as well as 42 Mathematics teachers participated in the study. A questionnaire consisting of 12 items measured on a 5-point Likert scale was used to collect the data on the teachers while students’ academic records on SBA were obtained directly from the schools. The results showed that there was a significant sex difference in achievement scores between male and female students on class assessment task scores. However, given the size of the absolute mean sex difference of class assessment tasks and end of term examination scores, the study concluded that the female students performed equally well as their male counterparts on examinations. It is recommended that assessment should not be used as a means of punishing students but should be used to enhance the teaching and learning process. It is also recommended that an intensive in-service training and workshops be organized for the Mathematics teachers to educate them on the effective use of SBA in schools sampled within the Municipality

Source: UCC
Sex Differences in Integrated Science Achievement at BECE in Cape Coast Metropolis

Science allows students to explore their world and discover new things, hence, it is an important part of the foundation for education for all children. The purpose of the study was to determine differences in performance of boys and girls in Integrated Science at Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). The study intended to find out if significant differences exist in the performance of boys and girls in Integrated Science and further investigated if gender has any effect on students’ achievement in the subject. Comparative and relational designs were employed for the study. The study was conducted in some selected Junior High Schools (JHS) in Cape Coast Metropolis. The accessible population was a set of mixed public JHS in the OLA circuit. In all, three JHS were selected from the schools in the circuit using the simple random sampling technique. The BECE results in Integrated Science for the past five years (2013-2017) were used. Independent samples t-test and chi square were used to analyze the data. The trend in performance seemed to favour the boys more than the girls. The study discovered statistically significant difference in the performance of boys and girls, with boys performing better than girls. Moreover, it was found out that gender has no significant effect on students’ performance. The findings suggest that the level of achievement in science is not gender-dependent. It is therefore proposed that, assessment techniques and pedagogical practices that improve girls’ knowledge, attitude and participation in science should be employed by teachers.

Source: UCC
Sex Differences in the Antidepressant Effects of Ketamine in Animal Models of Depression

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common psychiatric disease and it affects millions of people across the world. Patients suffering from MDD consistently complain about cognitive disturbances, significantly worsening the burden of this illness. The second most frequent mental illness in Europe is mood disorders and they are dominated by MDD, a-ecting 7% of the population. The recent discovery that the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist; ketamine; a revolutionary novel antidepressant, rapidly relieves depressive symptoms and suicidal imaginations, particularly amongst those with treatment-resistant depression have generated a new wave of excitement. This article discusses the sex differences that exist in depressive patients, summarizes the antidepressant activity of ketamine and reviews the mechanisms underlying the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine. It further discusses the sexual differences in the antidepressant activity of ketamine in preclinical studies

Source: UCC
Sex Differences in the Antidepressant Effects of Ketamine in Animal Models of Depression

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common psychiatric disease and it affects millions of people across the world. Patients suffering from MDD consistently com- plain about cognitive disturbances, significantly worsening the burden of this illness. The second most frequent mental illness in Europe is mood disorders and they are domina- ted by MDD, a-ecting 7% of the population. The recent di- scovery that the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist; ketamine; a revolutionary novel antidepressant, rapidly relieves depressive symptoms and suicidal imagi- nations, particularly amongst those with treatment-resistant depression have generated a new wave of excitement. This article discusses the sex differences that exist in depressi- ve patients, summarizes the antidepressant activity of ke- tamine and reviews the mechanisms underlying the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine. It further discusses the sexual differences in the antidepressant activity of ketamine in preclinical studies.

Source: UCC
Sex Sells! Could Sex Scenes in Ghanaian Video Films be used to Market Culture through Costume?

Film, although one of the youngest art forms, influences societies due to its unique way of interacting with the viewer. Film directors employ different tropes in conveying messages to audiences. One of such tropes is costume. “Sex sells” is a popular expression in advertising and marketing communications. The purpose of this study is to offer a new perspective on how sex scenes in films could be used to project aspects of a country’s culture. Riding on this popular expression, we argue that sex scenes in a Ghanaian video film could be a strong fulcrum to expose aspects of the rich Ghanaian culture to the world. We submit that by paying particular attention to the mise-en-scene of costume used during sex scenes, directors could lure film lovers into appreciating the kinds of fabric as well as style used by characters in a film. Through the case study method, we reviewed literature on mise-en-scene of costume in film, and its ability to convey underlying messages to the viewer. The literature review serves as the basis of our argument, where we propose how to ride on costume in sex scenes to project and market the richness of Ghanaian culture regarding clothing/costume in sex scenes in films. In this regard, we have been able to problematize a new way of thinking about sex scenes in films, especially regarding sex scene costume as a unique selling proposition and its contribution to marketing a country’s culture to the viewing public. This study contributes to policy in the entertainment industry in terms of portrayal of sex scenes in Ghanaian video films while ensuring cultural adaptability and growth.

Source: UCC
Sex Sells! Could Sex Scenes in Ghanaian Video Films be used to Market Culture through Costume?

Abstract. Film, although one of the youngest art forms, influences societies due to its unique way of interacting with the viewer. Film directors employ different tropes in conveying messages to audiences. One of such tropes is costume. “Sex sells” is a popular expression in advertising and marketing communications. The purpose of this study is to offer a new perspective on how sex scenes in films could be used to project aspects of a country’s culture. Riding on this popular expression, we argue that sex scenes in a Ghanaian video film could be a strong fulcrum to expose aspects of the rich Ghanaian culture to the world. We submit that by paying particular attention to the mise-en-scene of costume used during sex scenes, directors could lure film lovers into appreciating the kinds of fabric as well as style used by characters in a film. Through the case study method, we reviewed literature on mise-en-scene of costume in film, and its ability to convey underlying messages to the viewer. The literature review serves as the basis of our argument, where we propose how to ride on costume in sex scenes to project and market the richness of Ghanaian culture regarding clothing/costume in sex scenes in films. In this regard, we have been able to problematize a new way of thinking about sex scenes in films, especially regarding sex scene costume as a unique selling proposition and its contribution to marketing a country’s culture to the viewing public. This study contributes to policy in the entertainment industry in terms of portrayal of sex scenes in Ghanaian video films while ensuring cultural adaptability and growth.

Source: UCC
Sexting Behaviours Among Youth in Baptist Churches of The Ghana Baptist Convention in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana

The purpose of this study was to investigate sexting behaviours among youths in Baptist churches of the Ghana Baptist Convention (GBC) in the Cape Coast Metropolis. The study adopted a quantitative approach with a descriptive survey design. The population under consideration comprised all youth in Baptist Churches of the GBC within the Cape Coast Metropolis. Random and purposive sampling techniques were used to draw a total of 244 youths from the four Baptist churches of GBC within the Cape Coast Metropolis. A questionnaire titled Texting Motivation Qestionnaire (SMQ) was used in collecting the data for the study. Data were analysed using frequency and percentage, independent samples t-test and One-Way ANOVA. The study found that most of the respondents had received and forwarded sexually explicit messages. The major reasons given by the respondents for engaging in sexting practices included for fun, to flirt and to be accepted by friends. The study found a significant difference in sexting behaviours of the youth on the basis of gender, educational qualification and age. Also, it was found that the measures that could help regulate sexting behaviours among youth in Baptist Churches of GBC in the Cape Coast Metropolis included church programmes, parental intervention and organising preventive counselling programmes. On the basis of the findings, it was recommended that the youth in the Baptist Churches in the Cape Coast Metropolis should be educated by the leaders of Baptist Churches on the consequences of sexting and be encouraged to desist from such acts.

Source: UCC
Sexual and reproductive health education among dressmakers and hairdressers in the Assin South District

This study explored how dressmakers and hairdressers in the Assin South District of Ghana receive education on sexual and reproductive health. It sought to identify the various educative programmes that are specifically designed for dressmakers and hairdressers and the contribution of stakeholders in providing such education. An individual interview schedule was used to gather data from 119 dressmakers and hairdressers who were randomly sampled for the study. Four focus group discussions involving 29 discussants and in-depth interviews with five key informants were the other methods of data collection. Most of the participants had their first sexual intercourse at age 16. Most of the respondents would consult a qualified health professional when faced with problems in sexual and reproductive health. Majority of the dressmakers and hairdressers did not deliberately receive sexual and reproductive health education programmes nor discussed them at their work places. No structured education programme(s) on sexual and reproductive health existed for the participants, at least within the study period. Respondents agreed that sexual and reproductive health education should be integrated into their training. It is recommended that training in sexual and reproductive health education should be given to supervisors to build their capacities and to enable them educate their apprentices. A detailed study on sexual and reproductive health education in the informal economy of Ghana is recommended to inform policy formulation and programming.

Source: UCC
Sexual and Reproductive Health Education among Rural Families in Ghana: A Study in Adaklu, Volta Region

Although sexual and reproductive health education contributes to the development of adolescents and young people, it remains a challenge among rural families in Ghana. Even in societies where young people have access to sexual and reproductive health information, discourse on sexual matters remains generally repressive due to socio-cultural norms and mis/conceptions. These influence the sort of issues that are discussed at home with young people within the context of their age and gender thereby making some have low knowledge and uninformed about SRH issues and marginalised. Using qualitative in-depth interviews and group discussions of purposively sampled households in Adaklu, the study investigated sexual and reproductive health discussions among families and how such discussions have empowered young people aged 16-19 years. The findings showed that access to sources of SRH information impacts young people’s sexual attitudes and behaviours. Sexual and reproductive health discussions among families were not comprehensive and limited to areas some parents considered as non-sensitive issues while neglecting areas (such as contraception, dating, and relationships). Gendered socialisation scripted on cultural norms/values was found to be key in the entire sexuality education process and this hindered young people’s access to sexual and reproductive health information. Based on the findings, it will be useful for stakeholders (e.g., parents/guardians, community, state, and non-state actors, and other gatekeepers) to think of innovative and adolescent-friendly SRH education ideas/strategies, for young people to acquire the essential knowledge, skills, and efficacy to make informed decisions about their sexuality.

Source: UCC
Sexual behaviour among senior high school students in the Cape Coast Metropolis

Adolescence is a period of transition characterised by risk taking behaviours, including sexual behaviour, which may have implications on the health of the adolescent. The study examined sexual behaviour among Senior High School students in the Cape Coast Metropolis. The data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey. Through the multi-stage sampling method, 400 students were selected from three Senior High Schools whose ages ranged from 10-19 years. Chi-square, binary logistic regression and independent samples T-test were statistical techniques used to analyse the data. Fourteen percent of the respondents had ever had sexual intercourse. Fifty three percent of the respondents who had ever had sex, had it with multiple sexual partners and had had sex more than twice; the majority of students who had ever engaged in sexual intercourse did not use contraception. Sixty nine percent of the sexually active students who used contraceptives used condoms, which they purchased from pharmacies and chemical shops. Form one students were less likely to engage in sexual intercourse than students in Form two, (OR= 0.30, 95% CI=0.15-0.63). Students who lived with both parents were less likely to engage in sexual intercourse than those who did not live with both parents, (OR=0.480, 95% CI=0.240-0.963). Students who visited health facilities for sexual and reproductive health services were faced with negative attitude from providers. Students, who have not already engaged in sexual activities, should be encouraged to abstain until they are of age. Those who are sexually active should be encouraged to use contraceptives to prevent STIs and unplanned pregnancies.

Source: UCC
Sexual behaviour of in-school early adolescents: A case study in New Juaben Municipality

The study aimed at exploring in-school early adolescents’ awareness, knowledge and opinion on various sexual issues that account for their sexual development and behaviour which may result in contracting sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancies and very early childbearing. Adopting the descriptive research design, the researcher selected 400 students and 35 teachers as respondents from four basic schools in the New Juaben Municipality of the Eastern Region of Ghana using the stratified sampling technique. Data was collected using questionnaire and was analysed using percentages. The main findings were that in-school early adolescents really involve themselves in sexual matters and various factors account for this but the most prominent one is lack of parental care. Again, most of them prefer to discuss their sexual issues with their parents. It was also noted that sex education is not included in most subjects and majority of the teachers’ respondents suggested that it should be included in all subjects and begin between the ages of 10 and 14. Finally, both teachers and students confirmed to the fact that sexual activities really affect the behaviour of in-school early adolescents. The study therefore recommends that all stakeholders should confront the issue of sexuality openly at home and at school early enough in order to give at first hand information. Guidance and Counselling Coordinators are also encouraged to organize seminars to prepare the children while still in the year of innocence. Curriculum planners should introduce sex education as part of syllabus for the various subjects being taught in the basic schools.

Source: UCC
Sexual Experiences among Senior High Students at Selected Schools in Cape Coast Metropolis in Central Region of Ghana

Adolescent is a period of transition characterized by risk taking behaviors, including sexual behaviour, which may have implications on their health. The study examined sexual experiences among senior high school students at selected schools in the Cape Coast Metropolis. Methods: The data was obtained from a cross-sectional survey. Through the multi-stage proportional sampling method, 400 students were selected from three Senior High Schools whose ages ranged from ≤ 14 to 19 years. Questionnaire was used to collect the data. Frequencies and independent samples T-test were statistical techniques used to analyze the data. Data collected were processed using SPSS version 21. Results: Fourteen percent of the respondents had ever had sexual intercourse. Fifty three percent of the respondents who had ever had sex, had it with multiple sexual partners, and had sex more than twice. About 71% of the sexual partners of those who ever had sex were 10 to 14 years old at their sexual debut. There was statistically significant differences between males and females who ever had sex in terms of lifetime sexual intercourse (p= <0.001) and age at sexual debut (p=0.02). A statistically significant difference was also observed in scores for males and females (p=0.019). There was no statistical significant difference in scores for males and females (p=0.47). Conclusion: Students, who have not already engaged in sexual activities, should be encouraged to abstain until they are of age. Those who are sexually active and should be encouraged to use contraceptives to prevent STIs and unplanned pregnancies.

Source: UCC
Sexual harassment against female students in senior high schools in the Kumasi metropolis, Ashanti region of Ghana

The aim of this research was to investigate into the issue of sexual harassment against female students in Senior High Schools the Kumasi Metropolis, in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The descriptive survey research design was used for the study. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select the participants. A total of 540 female students were selected from six co-educational Senior High Schools. The main instrument used for the data collection was a questionnaire. The results showed that majority of the participants knew about the issue of sexual harassment of female students in schools. The respondents also identified the media and friends as their main source of information. It was also found that verbal sexual harassment was the most common form of sexual harassment, while female boarding students reported a higher level of sexual harassment than the female day students. Male students and male teachers were the worst perpetrators of sexual harassment in the schools. On the whole, it was found that the incidence of sexual harassment against female students in the senior high schools in the Kumasi Metropolis was widespread and a real problem to the female students. It is recommended that school authorities should incorporate the issue of sexual harassment into their fresh students’ orientation programmes, and create a female friendly school environment for the female students. Secondly, parents should show much interest in their female wards’ education by complementing the effort of the school in educating students.

Source: UCC
Sexual harassment and employees’ performance at the St. Gregory Hospital

This study sought to examine the influence of sexual harassment on employee’s performance at the St. Gregory Hospital in the central region of Ghana. The study employed structured questionnaire to collect primary data from all the employees of St. Gregory Catholic hospital for the analyses. The quantitative method was used to achieve the objectives of the study. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used in the data processing. The Cronbach’s alpha values obtained for all variables fall within the threshold, suggesting that all the variables used in the study have relatively high internal consistency. The data was analyzed using multiple regression analysis. It was found that sexual harassment have a significance negative influence on employees’ performance. It was also found that sexual harassment positively influence absenteeism, employees to commit more mistakes and affect employees to work slowly. It is recommended that Ministry of health should issue specific policy prohibiting sexual harassment in health institutions. In addition, management of health institutions should focus on sexual harassment education programmes on empowerment of employees to enable them to be bold to report cases of sexual harassment.

Source: UCC
Sexual Health And Academic Experience Among Female Adolescents With Visual Impairment In Ghana

The study explored the sexual health and academic experience of female adolescents with visual impairment in Ghana. Using an embedded mixed method design, five inclusive Senior High Schools (SHSs) were selected for the study. Overall, 71 female adolescents with visual impairment (FAVI) participated in the quantitative aspect of the study, however, 14 participants were purposively selected for the qualitative aspect of the study. Data gathered with the questionnaire was analysed using mean, standard deviation, percentages (%), ANOVA, and t-test, whilst the qualitative data was analysed using thematic content analysis. The study revealed that female adolescents with visual impairment had below-average levels of knowledge of sexual health. Religious background and age range had a significant influence on sexual health knowledge. Again, menstrual periods during school days/hours affected FAVI‟s academic experience. That is their class attendance, level of concentration on academic exercise during class hours or contact hours, and relationship with classmates were affected by students‟ menstrual cycle. FAVI‟s relationship with their male teachers was also affected in that male teachers probably did not understand the full impact of menstruation and therefore had a challenge understanding these students in class during their menstrual periods. The study recommended that Guidance and Counselling Units in the various SHSs should as a matter of urgency prioritize the provision of guidance on sexual health to improve FAVI experience of sexual health, especially issues related to menstrual health.

Source: UCC