Assessment of Standards and Availability of Laboratory Equipment and Utilization of Basic Science Laboratories in Federal College of Education, Zaria

Abstract

Adequate provision of apparatus, equipment and standardized laboratory facilities is necessary for effective teaching and learning, also the utilization and handling of this equipment for practical in our various Colleges of education prompt the need for this study. The study accesses the standard and availability of Laboratory Equipment and the utilization of some basic science laboratory of Biology, Chemistry and Physics in Federal College of Education Zaria. The sample size for the research constitutes of 21 laboratory technicians that is seven (7) each from Biology, Chemistry and Physics department respectively. The study seeks answers to 3 research questions, 30-item questionnaire split into 3 parts were used to collect data related to the research questions. The findings indicated among others that about 50% of the respondents claimed the laboratory equipment and apparatus are available and also points to the fact that the available equipment are not sufficient enough for all the students. Factors constraining the assessment and availability of Laboratory Equipment and utilization such as lack of Government and management supervision systems were also highlighted and based on which some recommendations were proffered.