Anor, Charity Esenam

2 Publications in AERD

Author Publications

Teaching Sustainability in Science Education: Pre-Service Science Teachers’ Perceptions of the Role of Indigenous Knowledge

By Anor, Charity Esenam

Encouraging sustainability in science education demands a collaborative approach, involving the integration of diverse knowledge systems, including indigenous and formal scientific knowledge. Nevertheless, educators’ perceptions of these knowledge systems are crucial factors to consider. This study investigated the perceptions of pre-service science teachers about the role of indigenous knowledge in promoting sustainability science education. The study was conducted at the Department of Integrated Science Education University of Education Winneba, Ghana and predominantly adopted a qualitative approach. A sample size of 54 Level 300 undergraduate pre-service science teachers were purposively chosen. These pre-service teachers have engaged with the science curriculum and syllabus through on-campus peer teaching and are prepared to take their internships in the country’s various second-cycle institutions. Emphasis is laid on the teaching of science to promote education for sustainable development in these institutions. Data were collected through an online questionnaire comprising open- and closed-ended items. The closed-ended items were quantified and analysed for clearer inference whereas thematic analysis was employed for qualitative data. The findings of the study established pre-service teachers’ affirmation of the potential of indigenous knowledge in providing education for sustainability if integrated into the teaching of science. The study recommended targeted interventions including the integration of indigenous knowledge into pre-service science teachers’ curriculum, training programmes, workshops, courses and campaigns aimed at increasing awareness, fostering positive attitudes, and promoting understanding and appreciation of indigenous knowledge and its role in sustainability. © 2024 Southern African Association for Research in Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (SAARMSTE).

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Students' engagement in learning by indigenous knowledge-chemistry lesson

By Anor, Charity Esenam

This study was aimed at assessing students' engagement in an integrated indigenous knowledge-chemistry lesson (IIK-CL) designed using the processes involved in cassava dough production. The paper focuses on the behavioural, emotional and cognitive engagement and their impact on students' construction of knowledge of the factors affecting rate of chemical reactions. The study was conducted in Swedru senior high school in the Agona East municipality of the Central Region of Ghana. A purposively sampled intact class of 26 students aged between 14 and 18 years formed the study. The control group for this study encompassed also 26 students randomly sampled from the remaining chemistry classes in the same grade as the study group. The IIK-CL, which employed the use of field trip and other interactive learning activities, was used to engage students in the learning concept. A quantitative research approach was used. Data before and after students' engagement in the IIK-CL were collected using questionnaires and an observational schedule. The IIK-CL recorded a significant level of behavioural, emotional and cognitive student engagement. This implies that students are most likely to be engaged in lessons that are relevant to their everyday lives thereby helping them in constructing understanding of scientific concept in their personal context. © 2022 University of Helsinki. All rights reserved.

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