Analysis of Challenges of Learning Home Economics in Public Junior Secondary Schools in Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

In order to successfully teach in this modern technological era. Teachers of home economics must be highly innovative and .flexible to changes. This study examined the challenges of learning home economics by junior secondary school students in public schools in Plateau State. A descriptive survey research design was used. The population for the study comprised 540 students and a sample of 180 from three senatorial zones of Plateau State. Four research questions were raised in line with the objectives of the study. A structured questionnaire was developed by the researchers for the purpose of data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics involving mean and standard deviation scores to answer the four research questions. The results revealed that secondary school teachers in the study area used the lecture (87%), questioning (70%) and demonstration (63%) teaching methods always and sometimes while they used the other methods rarely. Majority of the respondents agreed that separate laboratory for home economics practical's; laboratory equipment and materials for practical's are not available and when available are not always functional. Many of the respondents had moderate perception of their home economics teachers. It was recommended that more qualified teachers, functional laboratories and more efficient equipment be made available in junior secondary schools in Plateau State for more effective teaching and learning of home economics