Journal of Science Education

Preliminary Pages

JOSE — 2026-07-23

The Journal of Science Education (Vol. 16, No. 1, 2026), published by the School of Sciences at Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, Nigeria, presents multidisciplinary research. This issue features diverse studies covering pure and applied sciences, mathematics, technology, vocational education, and health, aiming to advance contemporary pedagogical and scientific discourse.

Investigating Mathematics Students’ Level of Awareness of the Use of AI Tools for Wealth Creation

Chibunna Benard Nwodika — 2026-07-15

This study investigates the level of awareness among mathematics students regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools for wealth creation. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 150 undergraduate mathematics students using structured questionnaires. The data were collected using a google form 20- item structured questionnaire which is divided into three sections: Section A: Demographic information, Section B: Awareness of AI tools and Section C: Use of AI tools for wealth creation. Four research question were posed and one hypothesis formulated to guide the study. A reliability index of 0.85 indicating high reliability was established using Cronbach’s Alpha. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 21 of Frequency and percentages, Mean and standard deviation and Pearson correlation. The findings reveal that while students are generally aware of AI tools, their understanding of how to apply them for wealth creation is limited. Statistical analysis shows a moderate level of awareness but low practical application. The study recommends integrating AI literacy into mathematics curricula and promoting digital entrepreneurship training.

Ageing and Health Promotion: The Role of Sporting Activities.

Iwuno Chiamaka Martha — 2026-07-16

Aging is an inevitable biological process characterized by progressive physiological decline, increased susceptibility to chronic diseases, and reduced functional capacity. However, aging healthfully remains an achievable goal through strategic lifestyle interventions, particularly participation in sporting activities. This paper examines the role of sporting activities in promoting healthy aging, focusing on physical, psychological, and social health outcomes. Drawing from contemporary literature, the study highlights how regular engagement in sports enhances cardiovascular health, preserves musculoskeletal function, improves mental well-being, and fosters social inclusion among older adults. The paper concludes that structured sporting activities are a critical component of health promotion strategies for aging populations and recommends policy integration and community-based interventions to support active aging.

Cognition of Menopausal Coping Mechanisms among Urban Women

Ngozi Veronica Orajekwe — 2026-07-16

Women stand the risk of numerous health conditions as they advance in age and one of such conditions is cessation of menstruation commonly called menopause. Ensuring healthy ageing depends on the woman’s ability to cope with menopause. The purpose of this research was to investigate level of cognition of menopause coping mechanisms among urban resident women in Onitsha community of Anambra State. The survey research design was adopted. The sample consisted of 200 resident women aged 45 years and above. Two-stage sampling procedure was used for the study. Structured interview was the major instrument for data collection. Data collected were analysed using percentage and chi-square. Result of the study revealed that the respondents have low level of cognition of menopausal coping mechanisms. Levels of education and religious affiliations of the respondents were found to influence their cognition. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that community-based health talks on menopause should be periodically organized at the grassroots to enlighten resident urban women on menopause coping mechanisms for healthy ageing.

Utilization of Antenatal Care (Anc) Services among Women of Childbearing Age Attending Federal Medical Centre, Onitsha, Anambra State

Nkechi E. Ibeagha — 2026-07-16

This study examined the utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services among women of childbearing age attending federal medical centre, Onitsha, Anambra State. Specifically, it assessed the extent to which pregnant mothers utilized health education, immunization, family planning, and physical assessment services in relation to their age and educational level. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was employed. The study population comprised 1,656 pregnant women, from which a sample of 166 respondents was selected. Data were collected using a validated researcher-developed questionnaire with high internal consistency (Cronbach's Alpha values ranging from 0.912 to 0.973). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26, and hypotheses were tested with Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that educational attainment significantly influenced the utilization of health education and physical assessment services, with women possessing higher education demonstrating greater usage. However, age had little impact on the utilization of health education services, as all groups reported high participation. In contrast, utilization of immunization services was not significantly differentiated by education but declined with increasing maternal age, suggesting higher adherence among younger women. Overall, the results suggest that education enhances informed engagement with specific ANC services, while age-related factors shape preferences for "others. The study concludes that while ANC service utilization is relatively high, disparities exist across age and educational subgroups. It recommends intensified health education, targeted interventions for older mothers regarding immunization adherence, and continuous promotion of family planning and routine physical assessments among all women of childbearing age to improve maternal and child health outcomes.

Effect of 3d Interactive Virtual Laboratory Computer-Simulated Experiments on Male and Female Senior Secondary School Students’ Achievement and Retention in Chemistry

Chiemeka Anastasia Udegbunam — 2026-07-16

This study investigated the effect of 3D Interactive Virtual Laboratory computer-simulated experiments on male and female senior secondary school students’ achievement and retention in Chemistry Subject. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design in which intact classes were used. It was guided by two research questions and two null hypotheses. The population comprised 234 SS II Chemistry students from Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. The sample consisted of 71 SS II Chemistry students drawn from four co-educational schools using a simple random sampling technique (balloting without replacement). Data were collected using a Chemistry Achievement Test (CAT) titled 3D Interactive Virtual Laboratory Achievement Test (3D IVLAT). The instrument was validated by two experts in Chemistry Education and one expert in Measurement and Evaluation. Its reliability was established using Spearman Rank Order, yielding a coefficient of 0.81. The data collected were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and t-test. Mean and standard deviation were employed to answer the research questions, while t-test was used to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that female students taught Chemistry with the 3D Interactive Virtual Laboratory had higher mean achievement and retention scores than male students taught with the 3D Interactive Virtual Laboratory. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the mean achievement and retention scores of male and female students taught Chemistry with the 3D Interactive Virtual Laboratory. Based on these findings, appropriate recommendations and conclusions swere drawn.

Chemistry for Everyday Living in Our Society

Nnamdi, B. Emendu — 2026-07-16

Chemistry plays an important role in everyday human existence and societal development. Daily activities such as cooking, farming, medicine preparation, sanitation, food preservation, and industrial production depend largely on chemical processes and reactions. This study examines the relevance of everyday chemistry in society, the relationship between traditional and modern chemistry, and the importance of indigenous chemical knowledge in sustainable living. The study also discusses various applications of chemistry in agriculture, healthcare, environmental management, and domestic life. A descriptive research approach based on literature review was adopted for the study. Findings revealed that chemistry is deeply integrated into human survival and economic growth. The study further showed that indigenous chemical knowledge contributes significantly to local technology, medicine, and environmental sustainability. The paper recommends increased awareness of chemistry education, proper handling of chemicals, and integration of indigenous knowledge into modern scientific practices. Chemistry remains a major tool for improving quality of life and promoting sustainable development in society.

Knowledge and Attitude of Chemistry Teachers to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Effective Teaching and Learning of Chemistry in Secondary Schools

Ekene N. Igboegwu — 2026-07-16

The study investigated the knowledge and attitude of chemistry teachers to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for effective teaching and learning of chemistry in secondary schools. Using a descriptive survey design, a sample of 105 chemistry teachers comprising 31 male and 74 female teachers which were randomly selected from 39 government-owned secondary schools in Anambra State, Nigeria were used. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The result revealed that majority of the teachers have low knowledge of information and communication technology and there is no significant gender difference between male and female chemistry teachers attitude towards information and communication technology. Therefore, it is recommended that the government and the stakeholders in the field of education should integrate ICT into the curriculum and organize workshops and training for teachers to enhance the quality of teachers for realization of the Nation's Education vision.

Improved Shooting in Basketball: "A No-Backboard Approach”

Chukwunweike Peter Iwuno — 2026-07-16

An augmented visual cue of basketball ring model (as designed by the researcher) was used to investigate the problem of shooting accuracy in basketball. Fourty (40) College female students at the department of Health and Physical Education, College of Education Nsugbe, were selected and used for this study. The study utilized the pre-test, post-test control group design. Training for the two groups were arranged at alternate days for three times a week lasting six weeks. Criteria measures were the jump shot from the foul line and from an angle of 45 degree. Only the experimental group was exposed to the basketball ring model throughout the training. The data were analysed using the student t-test at 0.05 level of significance. The results showed that these were significant differences in the performances of those who received augmented visual cue from those who did not in the two criteria measures, ft was therefore concluded that the augmented visual cue positively improved the shooting accuracy of those that trained with it.

Physics Teacher’s Pedagogical Competency and Years of Experience as Predictors of Students’ Numerical Proficiency in Solving Physics Problems

Philomena Ndidi Ike — 2026-07-16

The research examined the relationship between teachers' pedagogical competencies, years of experience and students' abilities in numerical problem-solving within the context of physics. The study was guided by a specific objective, two research questions, and two hypotheses. A correlational survey research design was employed. Conducted in the Onitsha Education Zone of Anambra State, the study involved a population of 61 physics teachers (4 males and 57 females) and 6,348 SS2 students across 32 public secondary schools during the 2022/2023 academic year. A sample of 220 participants, consisting of 20 teachers and 200 physics students, was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data collection utilized two instruments: the Physics Teachers’ Pedagogical Competency Rating Scale (PTPCRS) and the Physics Students’ Numerical Proficiency Test (PSNPT), both of which were validated by three experts. The reliabilities of the scoring was assessed using the Kendall coefficient of concordance, yielding reliability indices of 0.79 for the PTPCRS and 0.81 for the PSNPT. The researcher, along with five research assistants, administered the instruments. The data collected were analyzed using simple linear regression for the research question and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for the hypothesis. The results indicated that teachers' characteristics, specifically pedagogical competency (R² = 54.6%), significantly predict students' numerical proficiency in solving physics problems. Also, it was found that teacher’s years of experience moderate the predictability of teacher’s pedagogical competence on students’ numerical proficiency in solving physics problems. Based on these findings, it was recommended that teacher training institutions prioritize the development of essential pedagogical skills for all prospective teachers prior to graduation.

Influence of Numerical Methods on the Computational Performance of High-Dimensional Partial Differential Equations in Mathematics

Njideka F. Okeke — 2026-07-16

High-dimensional partial differential equations (PDEs) play a critical role in modeling complex phenomena in science, engineering, finance, and environmental systems. However, solving such equations analytically is often difficult due to their complexity and the large number of variables involved. Consequently, numerical methods are widely employed to obtain approximate solutions. Despite their usefulness, the computational performance of different numerical methods varies significantly when applied to high-dimensional PDEs. This study therefore examined the influence of numerical methods on the computational performance of high-dimensional partial differential equations. The study adopted a computational and comparative research design. Three widely used numerical methods—the Finite Difference Method (FDM), Finite Element Method (FEM), and Spectral Method (SM)—were implemented to solve a benchmark high-dimensional PDE model under identical computational conditions. The performance of these numerical methods was evaluated using key computational indicators including computational time, solution accuracy measured by the L2 error norm, and convergence rate. Data for the study were generated through computational experiments and analyzed using comparative performance analysis and regression techniques. The results revealed among others that, the Spectral Method demonstrated the best overall computational performance among the methods considered. Specifically, the Spectral Method recorded the lowest computational time, the highest solution accuracy, and the fastest convergence rate. The study therefore recommended that Researchers and computational scientists should consider using spectral methods when solving high-dimensional PDEs due to their superior accuracy and computational efficiency.

Assessing Students Performance and the Use of E-Learning Resources by Lecturers in Tertiary Institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria

Ogochukwu Gloria Umelue — 2026-07-16

The study seeks to examine the use of e-learning resources by lecturers in selected tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria. Four research objectives/questions guided the study. The population used for the study was 340 lecturers out of which 200 were sampled and used for the study. The instrument for data collection was a 20–item self-constructed questionnaire. It was validated by experts and has reliability coefficient of 0.83. Data were analyzed using the mean. The findings indicated that the lecturers use of e-learning facilities like digital library, Computer and even CD-ROM and slides have high impact on the performance of the students and also makes work to be easy on the part of the lecturers. On the other hand, it was found that lack of use of e-learning packages lowers the performance of the students to greater extent. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended that government should encourage lecturers to continue to use e-learning facilities, e -learning hardware and e-learning courseware through the award of honors to the best users of e-learning resources among lectures. Again, E-books which are high-tech reading materials should be adequately provided and the lecturers should be exposed or trained on the techniques of using e- books.

The Realities and Readiness of Implementing Innovative Pedagogies in Nigeria Colleges of Education

Ngozi Melvina Ezeiruaku — 2026-07-17

The transformation of teacher education in Nigeria requires a critical interrogation of existing pedagogical practices in Colleges of Education (CoE), particularly in light of global shifts toward innovative, learner-centered approaches. This paper examines the realities and readiness of implementing innovative pedagogies specifically the Flipped Classroom Model and Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) within the Nigerian Colleges of Education context. Drawing on an extensive review of contemporary literature, the paper adopts a conceptual-analytical framework to explore the structural, demographic, pedagogical, and psychological barriers that impede meaningful pedagogical reform. The findings reveal that chronic infrastructural deficits, inadequate digital access, massified classrooms, curriculum rigidity, and a deeply entrenched culture of passive learning collectively constitute formidable systemic obstacles. Nonetheless, the paper identifies strategic pathways that hold promise for context-sensitive reform, including the leveraging of low-tech and asynchronous mobile tools, the redesign of large-class instructional environments, explicit scaffolding of self-regulatory competencies, and robust institutional and policy interventions. The paper argues that readiness for pedagogical innovation in Nigerian Colleges of Education is not merely a technical or resource question but a multidimensional challenge requiring coordinated action at institutional, governmental, and professional levels. It concludes that while the road to transformation is arduous, it is navigable through deliberate, phased, and contextually responsive strategies. This work contributes to the growing discourse on reimagining teacher education in Nigeria.

Knowledge and Attitude of Female Undergraduate Students towards Breast Cancer Media Awareness Campaign in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State

Nkechi E. Ibeagha — 2026-07-17

This paper investigates the knowledge and attitude of female undergraduate students towards breast cancer media awareness campaign in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State. It was noted that despite the rising burden of breast cancer globally, studies assessing KAP related to BCS among university students in rural or semi-urban settings remain limited. Students in these areas often encounter substantial barriers to accessing health information and screening services due to infrastructural, educational, and socioeconomic constraints. Thus, the study reviewed the concept of breast cancer and types of breast cancer. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study consisted of all the female students in the degree programme, totaling one thousand, four hundred and fifty (1,450) female students. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 200 students used for the study. The sample was done using simple random sampling technique. The major instrument used for data collection was a self structured questionnaire. The data generated in the course of the research study was analyzed using weighted mean. The findings revealed that having a close family member with breast cancer, early menstruation and late menopause increase breast cancer risk. Again use of oral contraceptives for a long time may slightly increase risk, are the level of knowledge of breast cancer and BSE among female undergraduate students. It was also reported that most students do not know the correct steps to perform breast self-examination, where to go for clinical breast examination; students believe that breast cancer cannot happen to them because they are still young, and that students feel shy or embarrassed to touch their breasts for examination. Based on the findings, the study recommends among others that the school management should integrate practical breast self-examination (BSE) demonstrations into General Studies and orientation programmes.

The Relationship between Secondary School Students Interest and their Goal Setting Self-Regulated Learning in Biology

Olisaeloka Paschal Okoye — 2026-07-18

This study investigated the relationship between secondary school students interest and their goal setting self-regulated learning in Biology. Correlation research design was used because the study investigated the relationship between two variables without the researchers controlling or manipulating any of them. The target populations for the study were secondary school Biology students in Onitsha education zone in Anambra state, Nigeria. The sample for the study was three hundred and thirty two (332) Biology students (male: 156 and female: 176) drawn through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Two research questions and one hypothesis was raised to guide the study. The instruments used to elicit the relevant data were: A twenty item instrument questionnaire called Biology Self-Regulated Interest Scale (BSRIS) and Goal Setting Self- Regulated Learning Scale (GSSRLS) which were adapted by the researchers from goal setting motivation, self –directedness interest 1990 and Development and validation of an academic self- regulation of an academic scale for university students 2013. The reliability coefficient of the two adapted instruments where .845 and .88 respectively using Cronbach's Alpha. The data collected were analysed using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation for research questions and the sole hypothesis at .05 level of significance. The results revealed that there exists a direct positive relationship between secondary school students interest and their goal setting self-regulated learning in Biology but the relationship was moderate and there exist a low positive relationship between male secondary school students’ interest and self-regulatory learning in Biology and a moderate positive relationship between female secondary school students’ interest and self-regulated learning in Biology. Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that secondary school students interest moderately correlate with their self-regulated learning the subject. Secondly there is significant relationship between secondary school students interest and their goal setting self-regulated learning in Biology. From the conclusions, recommendations were made.

Goal Setting Self-Regulated Learning as Correlate to Students’ Academic Performance in Secondary School Biological Concepts of Genetics, Rhesus Factor and Skeleton

Okoye Paschal Olisaeloka — 2026-07-18

This study investigated on goal setting self-regulated learning as correlate to students’ academic performance in secondary school biological concepts of genetics, rhesus factor and skeleton in Onitsha north local government area of Anambra state. The design was correlational research type. The sample for the study was three hundred and thirty-two (332) Biology students (male: 146 and female: 186) drawn through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. two research questions and one hypothesis was raised to guide the study. The instruments used to elicit the relevant data were: A twenty item instrument questionnaire called Goal Setting Self-Regulated Learning (GSSRL) adapted from “Development and validation of an academic self-regulation scale for university students’ by Nasir (2013) and a twenty objective test called Biological Concepts Test of Genetics, Rhesus Factor and Skeleton (BCTGRFS) adapted from West African Examination Council (WAEC) past question from 2020-2022. The reliability of Goal Setting Self-Regulated Learning was tested using Cronbach alpha with coefficient value of .845 obtained while Biological Concepts Test of Genetics, Rhesus Factor and Skeleton was used the way it is because it is a standard test. Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation was used to answer research questions and test hypothesis at .05 level of significance. The results revealed that: there was a moderate positive relationship between students’ GSSRL and their academic performance in Biology. Hence, there is a significant difference in relationship between goal setting self-regulated learning and students’ academic performance in secondary school biological concepts of genetics, rhesus factor and skeleton. There exists a direct low positive relationship between male and female students’ academic performance in Biology concepts of genetics, rhesus factor and skeleton among secondary school students in Onitsha north local government area. From the findings it was recommended that teachers should be trained in skills to use materials within a critical gender framework, thus enabling students to study Biology materials critically from a gender perspective. Textbooks and other curricular materials should be critically evaluated for their gender inclusivity. Academic performance is not a gender issue, both genders should be encouraged to excel in academic achievement since equal opportunities is provided for both genders. Students should be discouraged from forming stereotyped towards certain subjects, because of their sexes. From the recommendation it was concluded that the correlation between students’ goal setting self-regulated learning strategy and their academic performance in Biology concepts of genetics, rhesus factor and skeleton was moderate positive. Hence, there was a significant relationship between goal setting self-regulated learning and students’ academic performance in secondary school biological concepts of genetics, rhesus factor and skeleton