CHAPTER 4

PRESENTATION OF RESEARCH FINDINGS

4.1 Overview

This chapter presents the findings of analyzing the effectiveness of different

teaching methods in promoting political literacy among high school students Akure
South west Local Government. The presentation of the findings was in line with
the objectives of the research which were as follows:-

1. To examine the teaching methods that teachers used in high school

classrooms.
2. To find out ways that teachers do maximize teaching methods to achieve
learning outcome for students.
3. To examine the effects of teaching method on the learning outcome of
students.
4. To find out the effects of teaching methods on student's class participation
in high school classroom.

Respondents in this research were drawn from the selected schools in Akure
South West Local Government. A total number of 150 respondents
participated in the research.

4.2 Characteristics of Respondents

Table 1.

GENDER

STATUS MALE FEMALES

Student 57 93
s

The above table is a representation of respondents who are students of the selected
high school. They were therefore in a position where they were able to participate
meaningfully and effectively in this research process.

4.3 Teaching methods that teachers used in high school classrooms.

 Teacher-Centered Approach to Learning

Teachers serve as instructor/authority figures who deliver knowledge to their
students through lectures and direct instruction, and aim to measure the
results through testing and assessment. This method is sometimes referred to
as “sage on the stage.”
 Student-Centered Approach to Learning
Teachers still serve as an authority figure, but may function more as a
facilitator or “guide on the side,” as students assume a much more active role
in the learning process. In this method, students learn from and are
continually assessed on such activities as group projects, student portfolios
and class participation.
  High-Tech Approach to Learning
From devices like laptops and tablets to using the internet to connect students
with information and people from around the world, technology plays an
ever-greater role in many of today’s classrooms. In the high-tech approach to
learning, teachers utilize many different types of technology to aid students in
their classroom learning.
 Low-Tech Approach to Learning
Technology obviously comes with pros and cons, and many teachers believe
that a low-tech approach better enables them to tailor the educational
experience to different types of learners. Additionally, while computer skills
are undeniably necessary today, this must be balanced against potential
downsides; for example, some would argue that over-reliance on spell check
and autocorrect features can inhibit rather than strengthen student spelling
and writing skills.

Results from the students were analyzed thematically and the most prominent
themes were as follows:

1. Experiential learning activities

2. Project-based learning

3. Peer-to-peer learning methods

4. Civic engagement activities

5. Interdisciplinary approaches

6. Social media

7. Traditional teaching methods etc.

However, the results of the 60 students were analyzed quantitatively from the
questionnaires and the following tables represent the findings.
 Table 2: Experiential learning activities

RESPONSE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Positive 49 81.6%

Negative 11 18.4%

Total 60 100%

From the frequency Table 2 above, 49 (81.6%) of the respondents indicated lack of
Experiential learning activities as significant factors to effects of teaching methods
whilst the remaining 11(18.4%) did not.

Table 3: Project-based learning

RESPONSE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Positive 43 71.7%

Negative 17 28.3%

Total 60 100%

Results from the questionnaires revealed a fairly high percentage of 71.7,

frequency 43 numbers of respondents in agreement that Project-based learning is
a good teaching methods. 17 (28.3%) respondents did not agree Project-based
learning was a factor.

Table 4: Peer-to-peer learning methods

RESPONSE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Positive 44 73.3%

Negative 16 26.7%
Total 60 100
Frequency Table 4 shows that 44 (73.3%) of the respondents believed in Peer-to-
peer learning methods whereas the remaining 16 (26.7%) did not.

Table 5: Civic engagement activities

RESPONSE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Positive 37 61.7%

Negative 23 38.3%
Total 60 100%

Civic engagement activities rated at 61.7%, i.e. 37 out of the 60 respondents

were in support, .23 (38.3%) of respondents either did not believe it was a factor
or were ignorant of its existence.

Table 6: Interdisciplinary approaches

RESPONSE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Positive 39 65%
Negative 21 35%
Total 60 100%

The above frequency table results show a frequency of 39 (65%) affirmative

response to the assertion that Interdisciplinary approaches contribute to teaching
methods whereas 21 (35%) either did not agree or had no idea.

Table 7: Social media

RESPONSE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Positive 45 75%
 Negative 15 25%
Total 60 100%

The above frequency table indicates a positive response of 45 (75%) to the

assertion that Social media is a contributory factor to teaching methods whereas 15
(25%) believed otherwise.

Table 8: Traditional teaching methods

RESPONSE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Positive 36 60%

Negative 24 40%
Total 60 100%

From the frequency table above, it is clear that the majority of respondents shared
the belief in Traditional teaching methods. A total of 36 (60%) of respondents
agreed with this assertion whereas 24 (40%) did not.

4.3.0 Part Two: Ways that teachers do maximize teaching methods to achieve
learning outcome for students

1. Differentiated Instruction: Identify students' strengths, weaknesses, interests,

and learning styles to tailor instruction, using various strategies like learning
centers, leveled readers, and technology.

2. Technology Integration: Utilize digital tools, educational apps, and multimedia

resources to enhance engagement, accessibility, and personalized learning, such as
online discussions, simulations, and virtual field trips.
3. Active Learning: Encourage student participation through discussions, debates,
role-plays, hands-on activities, and experiments, promoting deeper understanding
and critical thinking.

4. Project-Based Learning: Connect academic concepts to real-world applications

through projects that require research, collaboration, and problem-solving,
developing critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills.

5. Formative Assessments: Regularly monitor student progress through quizzes,

class discussions, observations, and self-assessments, adjusting instruction to
address knowledge gaps and misconceptions.

6. Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Design lessons that accommodate

diverse learning styles, abilities, and languages, using multiple means of
representation, expression, and engagement.

7. Flexible Grouping: Use various grouping strategies like whole-class, small

groups, pairs, and individual work to optimize learning, promote collaboration, and
cater to different learning needs.

8. Feedback and Reflection: Provide constructive feedback, encouraging students

to reflect on their learning, set goals, and identify areas for improvement,
developing self-assessment and metacognitive skills.
9. Culturally Responsive Teaching: Incorporate diverse perspectives,
experiences, and resources to promote inclusivity, cultural awareness, and
relevance, using strategies like multicultural literature and diverse visual aids.

10. Continuous Professional Development: Stay updated on best practices,

research, and technologies through workshops, conferences, and online courses,
enhancing teaching methods and staying current in subject matter expertise.

11. Learning Centers and Stations: Organize classrooms into centers or stations
for self-directed learning, exploration, and practice, promoting autonomy, choice,
and differentiated instruction.

12. Gamification and Game-Based Learning: Utilize games, challenges, and

competitions to increase engagement, motivation, and fun, teaching concepts like
teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

13. Real-World Connections: Relate academic concepts to everyday life, making

learning relevant, meaningful, and applicable, using case studies, guest speakers,
and field trips.

14. Student Autonomy and Choice: Offer choices in topics, products, or pace to
promote ownership, engagement, and motivation, using strategies like learning
menus and project-based learning.

15. Collaborative Learning: Encourage peer-to-peer learning, teamwork, and

communication through group projects, discussions, and problem-solving
activities, developing social skills and emotional intelligence.
By implementing these strategies, teachers can maximize their teaching methods to
achieve better learning outcomes, increased student engagement, and improved
academic success.

4.3.1 Part three: Effects of teaching method on the learning outcome of

students.
The effects of teaching methods on the learning outcomes of students are
multifaceted and far-reaching. Teaching methods can significantly impact student
learning, influencing their academic achievement, motivation, engagement, and
overall educational experience.

 Positive Effects:

1. Improved Academic Achievement: Effective teaching methods can lead to

higher grades, better test scores, and increased academic achievement. When
students are taught using methods that cater to their individual needs and learning
styles, they are more likely to understand and retain information.

2. Increased Student Engagement: Engaging teaching methods can boost student

motivation, interest, and participation, leading to a more enjoyable learning
experience. This, in turn, can lead to increased student engagement, reduced
absenteeism, and improved overall academic performance.

3. Deeper Understanding: Teaching methods that promote critical thinking,

analysis, and problem-solving can help students develop a deeper understanding of
subject matter. This deeper understanding can lead to better retention, application,
and transfer of knowledge.
4. Developed Soft Skills: Collaborative and project-based learning methods can
foster essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and time management.
These skills are crucial for success in both academic and professional settings.

5. Enhanced Creativity: Teaching methods that encourage creativity,

imagination, and innovation can help students develop original ideas and solutions.
This can lead to increased creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation in various
fields.

 Negative Effects:

1. Limited Understanding: Ineffective teaching methods can lead to superficial

knowledge, memorization, and limited understanding. When students are taught
using methods that fail to promote critical thinking and analysis, they may struggle
to apply knowledge in real-world situations.

2. Decreased Motivation: Unengaging teaching methods can result in decreased

student motivation, interest, and participation. This can lead to a negative attitude
towards learning, reduced academic achievement, and increased dropout rates.

3. Learning Gaps: Inadequate teaching methods can create learning gaps,

particularly for students who require extra support or have different learning styles.
This can lead to a widening of the achievement gap and decreased academic
success.

4. Inequitable Learning: Biased or culturally insensitive teaching methods can

lead to inequitable learning experiences, affecting students' self-esteem and
academic performance. This can result in a lack of representation, reduced
opportunities, and decreased academic achievement.
5. Teacher Burnout: Ineffective teaching methods can also lead to teacher
burnout, decreased job satisfaction, and high turnover rates. This can negatively
impact student learning, as teachers play a critical role in shaping educational
experiences.

In conclusion, teaching methods have a profound impact on student learning

outcomes. Effective teaching methods can lead to improved academic
achievement, increased engagement, and enhanced soft skills, while ineffective
methods can result in limited understanding, decreased motivation, and learning
gaps. By understanding the effects of teaching methods on learning outcomes,
educators can make informed decisions to optimize their teaching practices,
promoting better academic achievement, student engagement, and overall learning
experiences.

4.3.2. Part four: Effects of teaching methods on student's class participation in

high school classroom

The effects of teaching methods on student class participation in a high school

classroom are significant and multifaceted. Teaching methods can influence
student engagement, motivation, and overall participation in class discussions,
activities, and learning experiences.

 Positive Effects:

1. Increased Engagement: Student-centered teaching methods, such as project-

based learning and discussions, can increase student engagement and participation.
When students are actively involved in the learning process, they are more likely to
participate in class.

2. Improved Motivation: Teaching methods that promote autonomy, choice, and

self-directed learning can improve student motivation and participation. When
students have a sense of control over their learning, they are more likely to be
invested in the learning process.

3. Enhanced Critical Thinking: Teaching methods that encourage critical

thinking, analysis, and problem-solving can enhance student participation in class
discussions and activities. When students are challenged to think critically, they are
more likely to engage in meaningful discussions and debates.

4. Better Communication Skills: Collaborative teaching methods, such as group

work and presentations, can improve student communication skills and
participation. When students work together, they develop essential communication
skills, such as active listening, clear expression of ideas, and conflict resolution.

5. Increased Confidence: Teaching methods that provide opportunities for student

reflection, self-assessment, and feedback can increase student confidence and
participation. When students feel confident in their abilities, they are more likely to
participate in class.

 Negative Effects:

1. Decreased Engagement: Teacher-centered teaching methods, such as lectures

and textbooks, can decrease student engagement and participation. When students
are passive recipients of information, they are less likely to participate in class.
2. Limited Motivation: Teaching methods that lack relevance, interest, or
challenge can limit student motivation and participation. When students are not
invested in the learning process, they are less likely to participate in class.

3. Intimidation and Fear: Teaching methods that promote competition, criticism,

or embarrassment can intimidate or fear students, leading to decreased
participation. When students feel uncomfortable or anxious, they are less likely to
participate in class.

4. Lack of Autonomy: Teaching methods that lack choice, flexibility, or self-

directed learning can lead to a lack of autonomy, decreasing student participation.
When students feel constrained or restricted, they are less likely to participate in
class.

5. Cultural and Linguistic Barriers: Teaching methods that fail to account for
cultural and linguistic diversity can create barriers to student participation. When
students feel marginalized or excluded, they are less likely to participate in class.

In conclusion, teaching methods significantly impact student class participation in

high school classrooms. Effective teaching methods can increase engagement,
motivation, and participation, while ineffective methods can lead to decreased
engagement, limited motivation, and cultural and linguistic barriers. By
understanding the effects of teaching methods on class participation, educators can
optimize their teaching practices to promote inclusive, engaging, and effective
learning environments.