INFLUENCE OF INNOVATIVE TEACHING METHODS ON CHEMISTRY STUDENTS' ACHIEVEMENT IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN AWKA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA ANAMBRA STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

The study investigated the Influence of Innovative Teaching Methods on Chemistry Students' Achievement in Secondary Schools in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State Nigeria. The research design was descriptive survey research design. The study was guided by three research questions. The population of the study was 2,300 SS 1 Chemistry students. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 108 Chemistry students for the study. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled "Effectiveness of Innovative Teaching Methods on Chemistry Students' Achievement in Secondary Schools" (EITMCSASS). The instrument was validated by experts. The reliability coefficient was established at 0.81 using test-retest method. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the three research questions. The findings of this study revealed that innovative teaching methods were effective in enhancing the academic achievement and engagement of Chemistry students in secondary schools. The positive outcomes highlight the potential benefits of adopting these methods more widely in the education system. To address the challenges identified, the study recommended increased investment in teacher training, provision of adequate resources, and stronger support from school administrations and educational authorities. Finally, fostering a collaborative environment among educators and promoting the sharing of best practices can facilitate the effective adoption of innovative teaching strategies, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes for students.