ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
The use of modality in writing among senior high school students in Ghana a case study of Nkenkaasu senior high schools

This thesis examined the use of modality in writing among senior high school students in Ghana. First of all, the study aimed at investigating the most frequently used modal verbs and the types of modal verbs used by the students. It also looked at the meanings communicated by students using core modal verbs, as well as underpinning factors for the underuse of modal verbs and problems associate with it. The research design comprises a qualitative technique through descriptive analysis. Also, a sample of 350 students and 6 teachers were selected. The study used document and semi-structured interview instruments for data collection. The research findings showed that some modal verbs were most frequently used while others were less frequently used by the students in their writing. Again, the results of the study revealed that the students used all the three types of modal verbs in their writing. Moreover, the study revealed that modal verbs were used to communicate modal meanings by the students in their writing. Also, it was discovered that some underpinning factors such as complex system of modality and risk-taking led the students to underuse some core modal verbs. Finally, the findings of the study revealed that the underuse of some modal verbs led the students to make some grammatical errors in their writing. In order to circumvent problematic items identified in the study, and to further improve teaching and learning of modal verbs among students in their writing, several recommendations such as training students to use all core modal verbs frequently have been proposed.

Source: UEW
The use of music in enhancing teaching and learning in preschools_ case study of selected preschools in Winneba

This study seeks to examine the use of music as a medium for enhancing teaching and learning at kindergarten level of selected preschool in Winneba. The study investigated the extent to which music is used in the preschool, teaching strategies employed; how music is use for enhancing teaching and learning in the selected preschool in Winneba the resources which were used to facilitate music teaching and learning. The study involved four preschools and the participants were trained teachers except one of them. Data were collected and analysed qualitatively with a case study as a design. Interviews and observations were used as research instruments which enabled the researcher to identify and describe how music was used in the preschool environment to promote child development. This study revealed that, almost every subject in the preschool was taught with the aid of music. As such, various preschool teaching strategies like repetition, demonstration, role play and storytelling were employed by teachers. In addition, the study brings to bear how the music curricula, instructional materials and strategies meet the various developmental domains of children in the preschool. It is suggested that, preschool teachers and caregivers select the appropriate songs which would enhance the various developmental process in children and stimulate their performance at the right time.

Source: UEW
The use of palm kernel shell ash as cement extender in concrete

The national housing policy of Ghana which was approved by cabinet in 2010, advocates the use of local building materials for the construction of buildings. It is against this background, that in recent years many studies have been conducted to find cheap but useful local building materials to replace the conventional ones which are to some extent expensive. Cement is one of the most important elements in building construction works which is relatively expensive. This research seeks to study the possibility of utilizing palm kernel shell ash (PKSA) as cement extender in concrete production. The study aimed at finding the chemical composition of PKSA, strength and durability properties of concrete produced from OPC with partial replacement of PKSA. The palm kernel shell was burnt, sieved and was tested at a chemistry laboratory and then compared with the chemical composition of OPC. The PKSA was used to prepare concrete cubes at replacement levels of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%, cured for 28 days. From the study, it was evident that PKSA contains chemicals such as Si02 (silicon), Al203 (aluminium), Fe203 (iron oxide), CaO (calcium oxide), MgO (magnesium oxide) and K2O (potassium oxide) which are active ingredient in OPC but are not at the required levels. The PKSA replacement percentage in concrete mix improved workability but water absorption rate was comparatively high. Compressive strength declined as PKSA increased in the mix as well as density. The study showed an inverse correlation between compressive strength and PKSA percentage replacement levels. Following the high water absorption rate of PKSA concrete, it was not recommended for concrete works in water-logged areas. Despite the reduction in strength of PKSA concrete, 5% replacement is recommended for normal concrete works

Source: UEW
The use of phonics approach in teaching reading in early childhood centers in the Bolgatanga Municipality.

This study examined the use of phonics in teaching reading in early childhood centers in the Bolgatanga Municipality. It drew on two theoretical perspectives: the bottom-up and top-down theories of reading, and the sociocultural theory of learning, particularly the concepts of the zone of proximal development (ZPD), scaffolding, and mediation. The qualitative research approach and exploratory case study design were employed. Fourteen (14) teachers from five early childhood centers were selected as respondents through critical case (purposive) sampling technique. Data were collected through a focused group discussion guide and observation checklist, and analyzed using thematic and cross-case analytical procedures. The findings indicated that the teachers at the selected early childhood centers had gaps in their knowledge of phonics, adapted the use of multiple phonics methods in teaching reading, faced diverse challenges in using the phonics approach in teaching reading, and focused on adaptation, collaboration and professional development as strategies to manage the challenges they encountered. In light of the findings, it was recommended that, continual workshops and training sessions should be organized to update teachers on the evolving methodologies in phonics teaching; teachers in early childhood centers should emphasize diverse teaching strategies that integrate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic methods when combining phonics components; educational institutions and leadership should establish mentorship programmes where experienced teachers guide newcomers or colleagues facing challenges; and early childhood centers should begin phonics education at an early stage, possibly even before Kindergarten, to familiarize children with the fundamental concepts.

Source: UEW
The use of pidgin English among students of technical vocational institutes the case of four institutes

This work explored the impact of excessive use of Pidgin English on the Standard English among students of four Technical and Vocational Institutes in the Volta Region of Ghana. Two theories, that is, Thorndike’s identical element and the Baby talk on which a conceptual Framework was formed by the researcher. The mixed approach was adopted for the study with the Convergent Parallel Design utilized as the research design. Drawing on purposive and quota sampling techniques, the study used a sample size of 2446 was used out of a population of 6115. The study used a questionnaire and interview guide as their primary instruments for data collection after all ethical considerations were observed and adhered to. Findings from the study showed that, the excessive use of Pidgin English among students has negatively impacted the fluency of speaking Standard English and essay writing of the students from the four selected TVIs. Secondly, peer influence and lack of control ban were the attributive factors for speaking Pidgin English in the schools. Lastly, the study found relative to strategies to curb or minimize this phenomenon must include the active involvement of all key stakeholders such as school management, teachers, and parents. Deducing from the findings, if serious gains would be made in curbing or minimizing this social canker of Pidgin English in Ghanaian schools, an all hands on deck approach must be developed and implemented. This is especially important, considering the current global dispensation the world is living in and the increasing dominance of English language proficiency in all aspects of human lives.

Source: UEW
The use of play-based activities in teaching and learning by early childhood education teachers in Hemang Lower Denkyira District

The main purpose of this study was to explore for a first-hand information, how early childhood education teachers use play-based activities in teaching and learning in the Hemang Lower Denkyira District of the Central Region of Ghana. The study adopted the qualitative research approach. The illustrative case study design was employed for this study. Semi-structured interview guide and observation checklist were the instruments utilized to collect data from ten participants, nine professional Early Childhood Education Teachers and one District Early Childhood Coordinator for this study. The homogeneous type of purposive sampling techniques was used in selecting the participants for the study. The data were analyzed thematically with the help of Taguette, an online qualitative analysis software. The findings of the study revealed that, early childhood teachers are unfamiliar with the kind of play-based activities they have to integrate into their lessons for effective learning. The study also established that, most school authorities and other stakeholders within the education do not give enough attention and necessary support to play-based pedagogy at the early childhood level. Also, the study discovered that, early childhood teachers fail to use play-based activities in their lessons because play demands a lot of time which the allocated play time on the timetable was minimal. The study hence recommends that; Early Childhood teachers be equipped with the requisite knowledge on the various kinds of play-based activities to engage children during instructions. The Ministry of Education, Ghana Education Service, and other agencies in Education should strategically and periodically organize sensitization and advocacy programs for all stakeholders in education including education supervisors, head teachers, teachers, and parents to help them acquire basic knowledge which will help curb their misconceptions about play. Finally, the Ghana Education Service and National Council for Curriculum and Assessment should, by policy, allocate more time for play activities on the timetable for ECE centres to give the learners the chance to engage in play activities.

Source: UEW
The use of primary auxiliary verbs among pupils of junior high school form two, Baapelug

A THESIS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF APPLIED LINGUISTICS, FACULTY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION, SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES, UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, WINNEBA IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF THE MASTERS OF EDUCATION IN TEACHING ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE.

Source: UEW
The use of ripe plantain in the preparation of ofam; a typical local dish produced in Ghana

In Ghana, plantain surpluses have to be exported, processed or go to waste. A reduction in moisture content potentially increases shelf life and hence prevents excessive post-harvest loss and that drying is an alternative to a developing country like Ghana where there is deterioration due to poor storage, weather conditions and processing facilities. To this effect this study investigated the use of ripe plantain in the preparation of ofam a typical local dish produced in Ghana. The study objectives were to investigate the various methods used in the preparation of ofam as a traditional dish, ascertain the shelf-life of ofam on the local and international market, assess important criteria such as packaging structure, taste, colour, flavor, types of flour used in preparation, cooking mode and texture of ofam and examine the acceptability of the variety of ingredients used to prepare Ofam. This study adopted the experimental study design. The population for the study were one hundred and eighty (180). A sample size of 120 was selected for the study using random sampling method. The main instruments used to gather primary data were questionnaires and sensory evaluation. The data gathered was analysed statistically using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 16. The study revealed that 60.9% of the respondents affirmed that the shelf life of ofam is 1-2 weeks. Moreover, there is the need to create publicity regarding the importance of plantain consumption, encourage restaurant operators to include ofam in their menu and promote the local consumption of ofam. Moreover, 96.3% of the respondents agreed that Plantain is known to be low in sodium. The study finding shows that 93.6% of the respondents agreed that Plantains contains very little fat and no cholesterol. Finally, the packaging structure of cassava flour ofam and corn dough ofam was preferred compared to rice flour and corn flour ofam. The study concluded that, there is the need to invest in medical and laboratory research to unravel the numerous hidden advantages of consuming ofam.

Source: UEW
The use of science process skills to facilitate student’s’ learning of physics

The main purpose of the study was to give suggestions to facilitate student‟s‟ learning of physics using science process skills at Bolgatanga Senior High School in the Upper East Region of Ghana. This was to be achieved through the use of group activity approach and the organisations of laboratory practical activities. The study was an Action Research that used fifty five second year students out of a population of 680 physics students in the school based on purposive sampling procedure. The sampled students were further divided into 11 groups with five members each through simple random sampling technique. A series of practical activities were conducted to find out the students‟ level of understanding of the science process skills before group activity approach and laboratory practical activities were used as an intervention. The results revealed that there was an improvement in the performance of the students as well as their content knowledge in physics as a result of the use of science process skills. It is therefore, appropriate that science teachers prepare their science instructions such that equal opportunities are given to all students under their care. As a result there is a need for teacher‟s educational institutions to reinforce science process skills in the science teaching and learning in their science lessons. Additionally, science process skills should be employed by all physics teachers in the instruction of physics concept

Source: UEW
The use of smartphone mathematics applications among pre-service mathematics teachers at teacher universities in Ghana

The purpose of the study wasto find out the use of Smartphone Mathematics Applications (SMAs) among Pre-Service Mathematics Teachers (PMTs) in learning Mathematics at teacher universities in Ghana. It further investigated the factors that influence PMTs’ use of SMAs in learning mathematics and their perceptions about the use of SMAs in learning mathematics. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design. The targeted population for the study was made up of 1,840 PMTs at the two teacher universities in Ghana. Purposive sampling was used to select the two teacher universities in Ghana and PMTs owning mobile phones. Moreover, a stratified sampling technique was employed to select a PMTs for the study. The sample comprised of 320 PMTs, 160 from Teacher University A and the other 160 from Teacher University B. The instrument employed in this study was a questionnaire. The results indicated that GeoGebra among other types of SMAs was commonly used among most of the PMTs in learning mathematics and could be effective when integrated in learning mathematics. However, the PMTs perceived that the use of SMAs fascinate and make learning of mathematics more interesting and also enable the accomplishment of mathematics tasks more easily and faster. Furthermore, the PMTs have positive perceptions about the use of SMAs in learning mathematics. Results from the Ordinal Logistics Regression Model (OLRM) revealed that among other factors, awareness of the various SMAs influence PMTs’ use of SMAs in learning mathematics. Based on the findings, recommendations were consequently made.

Source: UEW
The use of social media among second cycle students of Techiman North district in the Bono East Region of Ghana

There are huge number of individuals on the web who are interested in gathering information about others and meet other individuals, to assemble, share data and encounters on many areas and topics. Because of this, hundreds of social networking sites have been made, and they have pulled in many clients in the few short years that interpersonal interaction has turned into a marvel. The key elements of the social media websites are fundamentally the same, yet each site attracts variety of clients in a wide range of ways. Many of the social networking websites aim at gathering huge public, while others draw in individuals based on race, sexual inclinations, religion, or nationality. The social media websites are additionally different in the ways in which they appear and join new data and specialized devices, like portable access, blogging, photograph, and video sharing. The main aim of this study was to analyze and evaluate the various impacts of social media on second cycle students of Techiman North, this research sampled 500 population out of an estimated total student’s population of 6960 which included both males and females selected from across all programmes comprising of General Science, General Arts, virtual Arts, Agriculture and Home Economics from year one to year three, questionnaires and observations were used for data collection. The research also in its findings discovered that second cycle students of Techiman North used Social media for irrelevant issues with their peers , some even go to the extent of sending their nude pictures and videos to their friends, most students also concentrate more on social media instant of academic work , most students also blindly copy wrong lifestyles from people on social media In order to confirm that, major results have been analyzed with respect to gender as well. Some of the results are similar to previous studies and research, while some of the results are contrary to the previous work done in this regard.

Source: UEW
The use of social media by law enforcement agencies a study of the Ghana Police Service

Technology has made it easy for criminals to carry out their illegal activities. Communities are gradually becoming computer-generated where people no longer converge at physical locations to take decisions. The measure of crime in modern times signifies a substantial challenge to law enforcement agencies in Ghana. Social media tools such as Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram have made it extremely easy for any subscriber to share comments, pictures, and videos with millions of people around the world. Due to the prevalence of social media use, criminals in Ghana have technologically advanced in their activities. Businesses and citizens are being tracked, monitored and ultimately attacked or robbed. The study aims to investigate how the Ghana Police Service uses social media tools to enforce the laws of Ghana. Owing to this, it employs the qualitative approach and a single case study respectively. The study reveals that the Ghana Police Service is taking advantage of the accrued benefits provided by social media platforms to improve upon its law enforcement mandate. However, there are indications that the Ghana Police Service needs to up its game on the use of social media for crime detection and prevention. The study made it possible for some notable senior police officers at the Ghana National Police Headquarters to be interviewed for the desired information.

Source: UEW
The use of solar dryer to control insect infestation in stored grains in Ghana

A study was carried out to assess the effectiveness of a simple solar dryer, built from local materials, to control cowpea bruchids, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricuis) and maize weevils, Sitophilus zeamais (Motsch.) in infested cowpea and maize. The effect of the heat generated in the solar dryer on the mortality of the insects, viability of the cowpea and maize seeds and the emergence of F1 progeny of C. maculatus and S. zeamais were the parameters assessed. The result obtained showed the reliability of the simple, low cost solar dryer in controlling the insects to an appreciable level. Complete (100%) mortality was obtained when the infested cowpea and maize were placed in the solar dryers, for 60 minutes and 120 minutes, respectively. The highest mean percent seed viability of the infested cowpea was 66.4% after being exposed for 120 minutes in the solar dryer and least viability was 48.5%. However, the mean percent seed viability of the infested maize decreased from 85% after 30 minutes of exposure in the solar dryer to 59.0% after 4 hours. The test indicated that exposure of the seed to the heat in the solar dryer reduced viability. The control for both cases gave higher percentage seed viability 73% and 86% for cowpea and maize, respectively. The period of exposure of the infested grains in the solar dryer for one hour or more also effectively reduced the number of F1 progeny that emerged from the stored grains. The result for solar-treated seeds was only effective as post-harvest reduction in weevil injury and may not be viable for planting due to loss in germination. © 2010 International Formulae Group. All rights reserved. Keywords: mortality, viability, F1 progeny, C. maculatus, S. zeamais

Source: UEW
The use of solar dryer to control insect infestation in stored grains in Ghana

A study was carried out to assess the effectiveness of a simple solar dryer, built from local materials, to control cowpea bruchids, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricuis) and maize weevils, Sitophilus zeamais (Motsch.) in infested cowpea and maize. The effect of the heat generated in the solar dryer on the mortality of the insects, viability of the cowpea and maize seeds and the emergence of F1 progeny of C. maculatus and S. zeamais were the parameters assessed. The result obtained showed the reliability of the simple, low cost solar dryer in controlling the insects to an appreciable level. Complete (100%) mortality was obtained when the infested cowpea and maize were placed in the solar dryers, for 60 minutes and 120 minutes, respectively. The highest mean percent seed viability of the infested cowpea was 66.4% after being exposed for 120 minutes in the solar dryer and least viability was 48.5%. However, the mean percent seed viability of the infested maize decreased from 85% after 30 minutes of exposure in the solar dryer to 59.0% after 4 hours. The test indicated that exposure of the seed to the heat in the solar dryer reduced viability. The control for both cases gave higher percentage seed viability 73% and 86% for cowpea and maize, respectively. The period of exposure of the infested grains in the solar dryer for one hour or more also effectively reduced the number of F1 progeny that emerged from the stored grains. The result for solar-treated seeds was only effective as post-harvest reduction in weevil injury and may not be viable for planting due to loss in germination

Source: UEW