Influence of Field Trip on Students’ Motivation in Learning Chemistry in Secondary Schools in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State

Abstract

The research looked into how field trips affected the motivation of secondary school students in Anambra State's Anambra East Local Government Area to learn chemistry. A descriptive survey research approach was used in the study. Four inquiries served as the study's compass. 237 chemistry students from all of the public secondary schools in the Anambra East Education Zone made up the study's population. For the study, a purposeful sampling strategy was employed. The researchers' structured questionnaire served as the data gathering tool. The dependability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach alpha reliability, yielding a reliability index of 0.81. The instrument was confirmed by three specialists. In order to address the study issues, the acquired data were analyzed using the mean and standard deviation. The study's results indicated that engaging in field trips has a positive impact on students' motivation to learn chemistry. The utilization of field trips for motivating students offers various advantages, but it was observed that chemistry teachers seldom incorporate this approach. The study identified challenges such as cost, time constraints, and inadequate support as obstacles hindering the effective use of field trips for motivating students in chemistry education. In light of these findings, recommendations include urging the government to alleviate the challenges associated with implementing field trips by providing reliable and heavily subsidized transportation options for chemistry students during fieldwork.