ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Improving the performance of girls in integrated science through cooperative learning an action research approach.

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of cooperative learning method of instruction in sustaining interest and improving performance of girls in Integrated Science. Thirty eight (38) girls selected from Form 2 General Arts class in St. Margaret Mary Senior High Technical School participated in this study. Tests, Questionnaires and Treatment Verification Checklist were the main instruments used for collecting data. A self-designed baseline survey test, pre-intervention test, was conducted to determine the previous knowledge base of the respondents in some selected topics in Integrated Science. The cooperative learning method was carried out as an intervention to stimulate the interest of the girls in Integrated Science for eight weeks. A post-intervention test was then administered to determine the effect of the intervention in stimulating the interest and improving the performance of the girls in Integrated Science. A t-test showed that, there was a significant difference in the performance of the girls in the post-intervention tests. According to the results of the post- intervention test, questionnaires and the Treatment Verification checklist, Cooperative Learning Approach improved achievement and brought about an enhanced interest of the girls in Integrated Science. It can be concluded that the Cooperative Learning Approach is an innovative pedagogy to change teaching and learning practices in the science classroom. The intervention fostered positive classroom interactions, promoted positive attitudes towards science and provided opportunities for developing critical thinking and analytical skills. The study therefore recommended further research in to the Cooperative Learning Approach in other topics of Science in other School.

Source: UEW
Improving the performance of S.H.S 2 biology students of Adeiso Senior High School in the teaching of photosynthesis through the use of activity method of teaching

The study aimed at enhancing the performance of S.H.S 2 Biology students of Adeiso Presbyterian Secondary School at Adeiso in the Eastern Region of Ghana in photosynthesis. During the study two classes were taken, with one class numbering up to 52 students comprising of 36 boys and 16 girls and the other class numbering 47 with 21 boys and 26 girls. The total sample size of the two classes was 99. In the selection of the sample for the research, random sampling was used by the researcher. The activity methods of demonstration and grouping methods were used in the collection of data. The data collected were analyzed. The study revealed that teaching students with demonstration and grouping methods enhances the performance of students. Other methods like seminars and science clubs plays important roles in enhancing or improving students’ performance. The kind of activity used during the demonstration was based on the constructivism theory, which work was started by Jean Piaget. This theory describes learning as actively constructed by one’s own knowledge. The theory lays emphasis on learning and knowledge as interactive and dynamic. In carrying out the demonstration based on the constructivism theory researcher used, experimentation, Research projects, films and class discussion, fieldtrips and debates and quizzes. In assessing the students, the tools used were the pre-intervention class test was used after which the researcher compared students performance on the pre-intervention and post intervention to see whether students performance was actually enhanced. For instance in the pre-intervention test conducted by the researcher, 27 students out of 99 representing 27.3% scored marks within 1-5. After the intervention was carried out, the percentage University of Education,Winneba http://ir.uew.edu.gh xii reduced from 27.3% to 4%. Marks within the range of 28-30 numbered 7 when the pre intervention test was carried out. After intervention was carried out, the number of students who scored marks in that range increased from 7 students to 28 students. These results shows that the intervention carried out by researcher yielded the desired results.

Source: UEW
Improving the performance of students in integrated science_ a case study

This research work sought to improve on the performance of students through the use of hands-on instructional approaches in integrated science. An Action Research was used in this study to improve students‟ performance in integrated science. Second Year General Art Students of Queen of Peace Senior High School numbering 57 was the sample used for the study. The research instruments used included observation, interview, questionnaires and tests. It was observed that these students believed that, integrated science is difficult and boring hence makes no attempt to excel in the subject. The students were engaged in activities, group work and constant use of teaching and learning materials to develop and sustain their interest in the subject. At the pre-intervention stage, interviews and diagnostic practical tests were used to assess the magnitude of student‟s problems. Observations were made and student‟s marks recorded. It was deduced that lack of activities involving learners affected their interest and performance in integrated science. Duration of eight weeks‟ intervention plan was designed and implemented to assist students to improve their performance in integrated science A number of recommendations have been made based on the findings of the research which include the need for teachers to always use varying teaching methods such as demonstration, practical activities, peer tutoring and discussions to make integrated science lessons interesting. Also, the performance of Form Two Art Two (2A2) students of Queen of peace Senior High School improved exceedingly when varying teaching methods, timely marking of students exercises and effective remedial lessons were conducted. It is hoped that learners will be more engaged in the teaching and learning process so as to develop and sustain their interest in the subject.

Source: UEW
Improving the performance of students in volumetric analysis through concept mapping in Wenchi Senior High School

The study investigated the use of concept mapping teaching method on Senior high school students’ academic achievement in chemistry. The design of the study was quasi-experimental design with 54 elective science Senior High students selected purposively from Wenchi Senior High School in Brong – Ahafo Region. Twenty – seven (27) students were used for both the control and experimental groups. Experimental groups were taught using concept mapping teaching strategy while Control groups were taught using the Traditional Teaching Method .The study was conducted within six weeks period and the topic covered was volumetric analysis. The students were pre-tested and post-tested using a Tutor Constructed Chemistry Achievement Test (TCCAT). Instrument used for data collection was an achievement test tagged Tutor Constructed Chemistry Achievement Test (TCCAT). The content of the instrument was validated by three experts and Cronbach alpha formula was used to test its reliability. The reliability coefficient of 0.82 and 0.75 for pre- test and post- test respectively. The data from both pre and post tests were analyzed using methods of descriptive and inferential statistics. The statistical procedures employed were: student t-test analysis as well as descriptive statistical tool such as the mean, standard deviation etc. to determine the impact of concept mapping on students’ performance in volumetric analysis. The responses from the questionnaire items were analyzed through the use of descriptive explanation making use of averages, percentages and descriptive statistics such as means, and percentage scores were calculated for participants’ responses.

Source: UEW
Improving the reading skills of students of Methodist girls high school

The purpose of the study was to determine the extent to which reading difficulties affect academic performance of secondary school students. The study was to establish comprehension errors that affect students’ academic performance. This study employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches for data collection and analyzes both teachers and students. The research design was a descriptive survey design. Data was collected by use of questionnaire for teachers of English and student’s cloze test and reading passage. Data from questionnaire, cloze test and reading passages were compiled, edited and coded according to the themes of the study. Quantitative data was analyzed by use of statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS). The target population comprised 12 teachers of English language and 120 students from Methodist Girls Senior High School. The sample of the study included 10 teachers of English and 100 form three students from the sampled school. Purposive sampling was used to select schools, teachers of English, and stratified and random sampling for students from forms two class. Findings from the reading test indicated that students who had less problems with word substitution, omission, addition, and mispronunciation are likely to perform academically well. Cloze test performance where 67 per cent of the students performed below average was an indicators of poor academic performance as a result of reading difficulties. It was established that ninety percent of the teachers of English experienced problems in teaching reading. Sixty per cent of the teachers did not conduct library lessons at all due to lack of library resources. The study recommends that teachers of English should be in-serviced regularly and that the school administration should ensure availability of library resource and reference materials through the Ministry of Education.

Source: UEW
Improving the teaching of physical education through traditional game activities in Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region.

The purpose of the study was to improve the teaching of traditional games within the Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region. The descriptive survey design was used in the study, with samples drawn using a simple random sampling technique. Forty (40) out of the one hundred and twenty-eight (128) schools were randomly selected for the study, twenty-four (24) teachers from the primary division and sixteen (16) teachers from the junior high schools. Data were gathered using a closed ended questionnaire. Primary quantitative data were analyzed using frequency counts and percentages. Results showed that Piiloloo was the most prevalent traditional game, constituting 40% of reported activities. While a minority of schools (10%) have dedicated PE teachers for traditional games, a significant portion (45%) integrate these activities into subjects beyond PE. A quarter of schools include traditional games in daily routines, showcasing their consistent integration into student experiences. However, equipment availability was limited, with only 15% of schools having sufficient resources, potentially hindering effective instruction. Results revealed that 15% of PE teachers lack necessary skills, prompting a need for professional development. Similarly, 15% of schools struggle to engage qualified experts for teaching traditional games. Equipment scarcity was the most prevalent challenge, affecting half of the respondents and potentially limiting practical activities. The study recommended that the preparation of teachers for basic school level should factor traditional games as part of their training to allow them to fully control that component when it comes to the teaching of physical education.

Source: UEW
Improving water resistance of compressed earth blocks enhanced with different natural fibres

Background: Studies have shown a great potential for the use of Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) as a sustainable building material due to its economic, environmental and social benefits. Objective: This study investigates the water resistance characteristics of CEBs reinforced with different natural fibres. Methods: The fibres were sourced from coconut husk, sugarcane bagasse and oil palm fruit at 1 wt% added to two soil samples. The CEB specimen size of 290 � 140 � 100 mm was made at a constant pressure of 10 MPa and dried in the sun for 21 days. Accelerated erosion test was conducted to determine the resistance of the specimen to continuous rainfall condition. Results: It was discovered that the fibres helped in reducing the erodibility rate of the blocks, though there were some degrees of damage. The difference between the water resistance of the unreinforced and fibre reinforced CEBs were found to be statistically significant. Furthermore, the surface of the fibre reinforced blocks eroded rapidly in depth than the internal part, and there was reduction in the depth difference of the erosion with increase time of water spraying on the specimens. Conclusion: The study concludes that though the addition of fibres in soil blocks does not completely prevent the block from erosion, the impact of the fibres on the blocks significantly reduces the erosion. � 2017 Humphrey Danso.

Source: UEW
In search of performance-oriented leadership behaviours in the Ghanaian financial service sector: the role of knowledge sharing

Purpose: This study seeks to examine the mediating role of knowledge sharing (KNS) in the nexus between leadership behaviours and organizational performance (OP). Design/methodology/approach: Using the survey research design, data were obtained from 335 employees in the Ghanaian financial service sector. Responses were analysed using IBM SPSS (v.23.0), Smart PLS 3.0 and Haye�s (2017) PROCESS macro. Findings: KNS mediated the relationship between leadership behaviours and OP. In addition, transformational leadership behaviour and transactional leadership behaviour positively relate to OP rather than transfor-sactional leadership behaviour. Practical implications: The findings of this study give credence to the disputed notion that KNS plays a significant role in effective leadership behaviours that enhances OP. Originality/value: This paper provides a distinctive approach in examining the interrelationship among leadership behaviours, OP and KNS in the Ghanaian financial service sector. � 2022, Michael Kyei-Frimpong, Isaac Nyarko Adu, Abdul-Razak Suleman and Kwame Owusu Boakye.

Source: UEW
In-service needs of primary school teachers in science towards the implementation of the standards based curriculum

The purpose of the study was to identify Primary school teacher’s in-service needs in Science towards the implementation of the standards-based curriculum in the Kintampo North Municipality of the Bono East Region. The study employed Sequential Explanatory Mixed Method Design with a sample of 240 primary school teachers. An adapted Science Inventory of Needs (STIN) and interview guide was used to seek their prevalent in-service needs. The questionnaire had six dimensions, namely management of science instruction, diagnosing and evaluating students, generic pedagogical knowledge and skills, knowledge and skills in science subjects, administrating science instructional facilities and equipment and planning science instruction. Descriptive statistics, thematic analysis and Chi square test were used to analyse the data. The results indicated that the highest rated prevalent in-service needs were generic pedagogical knowledge and skills and planning science instruction with diagnosing and evaluating students as the least. The Chi square tests, conducted at the 0.05 level of significance, showed that there were statistical differences between urban teachers’ inservice needs in favour of the Primary school teachers from rural schools in science for knowledge and skills in science subjects, administering science instructional facilities and equipment, planning activities in science instruction and school location, gender has influence on the perceived professional development needs of primary school teachers. The male teachers expressed more need for professional development than their female counterpart. The study recommended among others that for an effective professional development, the organisers assess prevalent in-service needs of the teachers before planning to solicit the teachers’ participation and for meaningful professional development programme.

Source: UEW
Incentives for water supply to the urban poor and the role of the regulator in Ghana

Urban water coverage in Ghana has been increasing but urban water supply to the poor is a challenge. This paper examines the incentive mechanisms in use in the urban water sector to serve the poor. The paper is based on reviews of incentive mechanisms (policy, strategies and practices), assessment of the level of implementation of pro-poor strategies and water supply situation in selected poor communities in the second largest city, Kumasi. The paper discusses the incentive mechanisms and the level of effectiveness and emphasises the role of the regulator. The study revealed that the policy framework for water service delivery to the urban poor exists but not all the intentions have been implemented. The urban utility is setting up a pro-poor unit and piloting innovative technical and management approaches for delivering services to the urban poor. The sector lacks sufficient incentive mechanisms to accelerate water service delivery to the urban poor. Copyright � 2016 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.

Source: UEW
The incidence of tax evasion on revenue mobilization in Ghana

The very basis for the survival of every state is tax revenue which has been in existence for several centuries. It is argued that Ghana is unable to meet its developmental needs due to tax revenue losses and for this reason, several research has been undertaken to unravel the very root cause. The incidence of tax evasion especially within the informal sector is a major concern for developing states. After having seen some gaps in some earlier works, it was very important to launch research to unravel the incidence of tax evasion within the context of a very typical informal sector like Abossey Okai in Accra, Ghana, and to find its effect on tax revenue mobilization. The study sought to examine the magnitude of the problem and the factors leading to the same. Since tax evasion affects revenue mobilization, it was important to examine the revenue mobilization performance in Abossey Okai, while assessing the strategies being employed by the tax authorities to reduce tax evasion. The sample size used for the study was 306 tax payers and 10 GRA tax officers. The study employed the mixed method design and also adopted a survey approach where questionnaires were administered to both taxpayers and tax officers, followed up with interviews and investigations. Data was analyzed with the use of the SPSS. Analysis of the responses demonstrated that the rate of tax evasion in that enclave is very high and the main factor leading to tax evasion is lack of enforcement of the tax laws, contrary to most literature that suggests high tax rate and/or lack of education as a major factor. It was recommended to the GRA, among others, to enforce the tax laws to the latter, to institute a very stiff penalty for contravening any section of the law and above all to stop excessive political interference where the GRA‘s Commissioner General and the Commissioners must not be appointed by the government of the day.

Source: UEW
Inclusion of Children with Learning Difficulties in Literacy and Numeracy in Ghana: A Literature Review

Ghana has a long-standing commitment to improving the education of its citizens. Since its ratification of the United Nation Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), this country has experienced significant growth in the areas of inclusive education. However, Ghana still struggles in ensuring that students with disabilities and those with other learning difficulties receive an education in an inclusive setting. This study reviews current literature on students with disabilities and inclusive education in relation to policy, contextual factors, and practice in Ghana. The topics covered include an overview of inclusive education in this country, learning disabilities and other learning challenges, identification and eligibility for special education, differentiation of learning and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and teacher training on the differentiation of instruction and identification. A total of 120 sources were involved in this review, including regional, international and Ghana-based documents, and other secondary sources. The study recommends ways to enhance the inclusion of children with learning difficulties in literacy and numeracy curricula. � 2020, � 2020 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Source: UEW
Inclusion of learners with special needs in the kindergarten education A case study at Kyerematen Basic School in the New Juaben South Municipality

The purpose of the study was to assess the inclusion of learners with special needs in the kindergarten, a case study at Kyerematen basic school in the New Juaben south municipality. To achieve this, descriptive survey was adopted. The study was conducted involving 75 teachers from In Kyerematen Basic School in the New Juaben South Municipality. Questionnaires were used to elicit responses from selected teachers. The data was analysed with the help Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPPS version 25) to produced descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations). It was emerged from the study that teachers in Kyerematen Basic School in the New Juaben South Municipality have a major to play in inclusion education practice. Some of roles include the fact that teachers are to make school compound comfortable for pupils with disabilities, teachers are to make sure that pupils with disabilities are not stigmatized by those pupils without disabilities etc. On the issue of effectiveness of inclusive education practices in Kyerematen Basic School in the New Juaben South Municipality, it was evident that inclusive education is effective in the school. Finally on the challenges, it was revealed that the practicing of inclusive education is challenged with a lot of factors. This include Inclusive education is stressful when teachers lack skills in dealing with disabilities, lack of proper teaching and learning materials that would help accommodate the learners with disabilities is a challenge with inclusive education. It was recommended that parents should be made aware that their services are very important in the education of their children, and that their involvement will be of much value.

Source: UEW