Effects of Hands-on Learning on Academic Achievement of Students in Chemistry in Secondary Schools in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State

This study examined the effect of hands-on learning on the academic achievement of students in Chemistry in senior secondary schools in selected public secondary schools in selected public secondary schools in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The study examined the mean achievement score of students taught using hands-on learning method and discussion method and the mean achievement score of male and female students taught using hands-on learning and discussion method. This study adopts the Experimental Learning Theory by David Kolb in 1984 and the Inquiry-Based learning theory by Dewey in 1910. This study adopts the quasi-experimental design, specifically a pre-test and post-test control group structure, to examine the impact of practical learning on the academic success of students studying Chemistry in Senior Secondary Schools in various public secondary schools within the Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The study comprises of students in Bishop Dimieari Grammar School, Ovom and St. Jude’s Girls Secondary School, Amarata with a total of 20 Chemistry Achievement Test (CAT) consisting of twenty (20) items, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as simple percentage, ratios an average. From the analysis, the study found out that there is a significant relationship between students taught using hands-on learning and the discussion method and also and also differences in mean of male and female students taught using the both teaching methods. From the analysis, the study recommends that Educators should consider incorporating a mix of teaching methods that include both traditional classroom discussions and hands-on learning activities to cater to different learning styles and preferences.