Instructional Resources and Effective Teaching and Learning of History in Ilorin South Lga Junior Secondary Schools, Kwara State

This study examined the availability, utilisation, and effectiveness of instructional resources among Junior Secondary Schools in Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. The research aimed to assess the current state of instructional resources in both public and private schools, and to Identify whether demographic factors such as gender, age, and school type influence the observed patterns. A total of ten (10) secondary schools were selected for the study, comprising five (5) public and five (5) private schools. From each school, ten (10) students were randomly selected, giving a total sample size of one hundred (100) students - 50 from public schools and 50 from private schools. The findings of the study revealed that the level of availability, utilisation, and effectiveness of instructional resources in Junior Secondary Schools within the local government area was generally average. Despite the moderate presence and use of instructional materials, their impact on educational delivery was not maximally effective. The study further revealed that there was a significant difference in the availability of instructional resources based on gender, indicating possible disparities in access to resources between male and female students. Additionally, there was a significant difference in the utilisation of instructional resources based on school level (i.e., public vs. private), with private schools generally showing higher levels of use. Finally, the study found a significant difference in the perceived effectiveness of instructional resources based on the age of the students. The study recommends a more equitable distribution and strategic utilisation of instructional materials across all schools and students group to enhance learning outcomes.