Challenges of Teaching and Learning Science at a Distance in National Open University of Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the challenges of teaching and learning of science at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). The study was guided by four research questions. A descriptive survey design was used for the study. The sample consisted of four hundred, 300-level Science students in the School of Science and Technology and School of Education in four randomly selected study centres of NOUN. Data were collected using a 31- item, four point rating scale developed and validated by the researchers. The instrument had a reliability index of 0.76, using Cronbach Alpha technique. Data were analyzed using mean ratings. Findings of the study indicated that: funding, inadequate infrastructure/instructional materials, human resources among others, are some of the challenges of teaching and learning of science at the National Open University of Nigeria. The chapter concluded with some recommendations including that more budgetary allocation should be made to the education sector to provide the needed infrastructure, provide in-service training for staff and attract quality personnel to the programme, among others.