Survey of Laboratory Resources for Teaching and Learning Biology in Public and Private Secondary Schools in Gwale Lga,kano State.

ABSTRACT
The aim of the study is to assess the availability of laboratory resources for
teaching and learning biology in public and private secondary schools in Gwale
LGA, Kano State. Descriptive survey research design is employed, as described by
Hassan (2020). This type of design systematically collects background information,
and captures characteristics, features, opinions, ideas, facts, comments, and public
opinions about a population. This systematic approach allows the researcher to
present findings that are representative of the population as a whole. 20
respondents were selected from each of the public schools and 10 from each of the
private schools making a total of 130 respondents. A closed ended questionnaire
will be use, thus, it divides into, section (A, and B). Section (A), contains personal
information of the respondents, who are chemistry teachers from the selected
Secondary schools within the study area, while section (B), contains issues on the
questionnaire items. The instrument for the collection of data in this research is
questionnaire; the questionnaires will be designed in the 5 points likert scale, (SA=
strongly agree, A=Agree, U=Undecided, D=Disagree, SD=strongly disagree). The
study found that, public schools struggle with inadequate laboratory equipment and
materials, negatively impacting the effectiveness of biology teaching and student
learning outcomes. These findings align with existing literature, notably Ibrahim
(2018), which highlights how a lack of modern equipment hinders effective
teaching in Northern Nigeria, and Jibril (2021), which discusses the logistical
challenges faced by rural schools. The studies emphasize the need for targeted
support, improved infrastructure, and enhanced teacher training to address these
disparities. Collectively, the research underscores the importance of investing in
laboratory resources and teacher development to foster a more effective educational
environment, particularly in public schools, to enhance students' learning
experiences in biology. The followings are the recommendations by the study:
School authorities should invest in modern laboratory equipment and resources in
public schools to ensure they meet the current curriculum standards and support
effective teaching and learning, State educational authorities should allocate
additional funds specifically for laboratory resources in public schools to bridge the
gap in access and quality between public and private institutions, implement
regular professional development workshops for biology teachers focusing on
effective utilization of laboratory resources and modern teaching strategies,
improve partnerships with local communities and organizations to support the
provision of laboratory materials and resources, particularly in rural and
underfunded schools and also, conduct periodic assessments of laboratory
resources and materials to ensure they are updated and maintained, aligning with
the evolving educational needs and technological advancements.