Exploring the Nexus between Laboratory Work, Student Attitudes and Academic Performance of Secondary School Biology Students in Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigates the interrelationship between laboratory work, student attitudes and academic performance in Biology among secondary school students in Biology. The study adopts descriptive survey research design. The study comprised all senior secondary school students in Osun State. The sample consisted of 360 SSS II students selected using multistage sampling technique. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed a significant shortage of Biology laboratory equipment as indicated by a grand mean of 1.50 meanwhile, a grand mean of 3.79 indicated that students perceive laboratory activities as contributing to improving academic performance. The study concludes that while the lack of adequate laboratory equipment is a major challenge, practical laboratory activities play a crucial role in enhancing students’ attitude and academic performance in Biology. The findings suggest that improving both the availability of laboratory resources and the quality of practical sessions can significantly elevate Biology education in the study area.