A Survey of the Problems Associated With the Provision and Use of Visual Materialsin Teaching Geography in Senior Secondary Schools in Gwale Local Government Area Kano.

his study investigated the challenges associated with the provision and use of visual materials in the teaching of Geography in public secondary schools within Gwale Local Government Area, Kano State. The study was necessitated by persistent concerns over the declining quality of geography education, leargely attributed to inadequate teaching resources and limited use of instructional aids. A descriptive survey research design was employed, and data were gathered through structured questionnaires administered to 25 geography teachers and 100 senior secondary school students, as well as an observation checklist used to assess the availability and functionality of visual materials across 26 public schools in the area. The findings revealed that although various types of visual materials—such as maps, globes, charts, and pictures—were available to some extent, they were generally inadequate, outdated, or poorly maintained. The study also found that the use of these materials was inconsistent; the majority of respondents indicated they were only “sometimes” used during geography lessons. Both teachers and students acknowledged that visual materials significantly enhanced understanding, particularly maps and charts, which were identified as the most effective tools. However, several critical challenges hindered their effective use, including lack of funds, poor maintenance culture, inadequate teacher training, insufficient access to digital tools, large class sizes, and unreliable electricity supply.The observational checklist corroborated the survey data, highlighting that many visual materials were either non-functional or improperly stored, and that facilities such as projectors and internet access were either unavailable or grossly underutilized. The study concludes that these systemic issues continue to undermine efforts to improve geography instruction in the study area.Based on these findings, the study recommends improved funding, regular teacher training on visual aids, and the integration of modern digital tools in geography instruction. Addressing these challenges is essential for enhancing student engagement and improving the overall effectiveness of geography teaching in secondary schools within Gwale Local Government Area