Instructional Materials Usage in Teaching of Social Studies in Junior Secondary Schools in Akure Municipal of Ondo State, Nigeria
Keywords:
Instructional materials, Social Studies, junior secondary schools, Akure MunicipalAbstract
The use of instructional materials is essential for effective teaching and learning of Social Studies. However, in junior secondary schools in Akure Municipal, the availability and proper use of these materials remain limited. Many teachers still depend mainly on verbal instruction, which reduces students’ interest and understanding of the subject. This study examined the usage of instructional materials in the teaching of Social Studies in junior secondary schools in Akure Municipal of Ondo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population consisted of all social studies teachers in junior secondary schools in Akure Municipal. A sample of 200 teachers was randomly selected using a multistage sampling technique. A structured questionnaire and classroom observation checklist were used for data collection. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, using frequent counts and percentages. The findings revealed that 59% of schools lacked sufficient instructional and learning resources. Furthermore, 60% of social studies teachers displayed a negative attitude towards utilising available teaching resources, and 68% of respondents indicated limited teacher access to these materials for classroom use, indicated that instructional materials were moderately available, and their actual utilisation in classrooms was significantly low, mainly due to inadequate funding, teacher-related constraints, and lack of government support. The study concluded that limited usage of instructional materials hinders effective teaching and learning of social studies. It was recommended that schools and educational stakeholders should ensure regular provision and adequate use of instructional resources to enhance students' academic performance and engagement. Also, social studies teachers should also focus on creating essential, student-engaging teaching resources to supplement the limited resources provided by governments and schools.