Assessment of Candidates' Educational Performance in Integrated Science at the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), in Sierra Leone, 2005-2007, Implications for Stakeholders

Abstract

The study assessed the educational performance of candidates in integrated science at the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) between 2005 and 2007 in Sierra Leone, and its implication for stakeholders. Descriptive research survey design was adopted in the study. The target population comprised of200 junior secondary schools that presented candidates for 2005-2007BECE in Sierra Leone, junior secondary school pupilsth at have been in the schools for at least two years and attempted integrated science at BECE between 2005 and 2007 in Sierra Leone, Integrated Science Teachers and Integrated Science Heads of Department. Sample consisted of 100 junior secondary schools, chosen by stratified random sampling technique. The instrument used to collect information on performances of candidates was the Basic Education Certificate Examination results for 2005-2007.Data was analysed using frequency counts and percentages through Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results obtained were displayed on bar charts and line graphs .Findings revealed among others, unsatisfactory performance of candidates in integrated science at BECE between the periods 2005 and 2007. Based on the findings, it was recommended that: government to regularly monitor and supervise teaching and learning process in junior secondary schools in all regions and districts of the country; principals to adopt evaluation strategy for teachers by preparing annual performance appraisal form for every teacher in the schools and also take record of class attendance of pupils, in order to evaluate the teaching/learning process of integrated science in the schools; government to provide adequate and up to date teaching and learning materials to the schools; school employers to employ more science graduates to teach in the BECE classes;  government to construct more schools and refurbish the old ones in each of the districts to reduce congestion of classes; government through MEST to organize workshops, seminars, conferences and in-service training to improve on the science teachers' pedagogy.