Published Article

ABSTRACT

This study examined the potency of laboratory and library facilities in promoting students’ interest and performance in physics. In carrying out the study, descriptive survey design was adopted and the study area was Akwa Ibom State. The targeted population for the study comprised all laboratory scientists and librarians in secondary schools in Akwa Ibom State. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 90 laboratory scientists and 90 librarians which gave a total of 180 respondents used for the study. The instrument used for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled “Laboratory and Library Facilities Potencies and Students’ Interest and Performance in Physics Questionnaire (LLFPSIPPQ)”. Face and content validation of the instrument was carried out by an expert in test, measurement, and evaluation in order to ensure that the instrument has the accuracy, appropriateness, and completeness for the study under consideration. The reliability coefficient obtained was 0.82 and this was high enough to justify the use of the instrument. The researcher subjected the data generated for this study to appropriate statistical technique such as percentage analysis used in answering the research questions. The study delves into the aspects of laboratory, physics, laboratory facilities, and the academic performance of a students, giving results that indicate a positive correlation between the availability of these educational facilities and the improvement of student outcomes. Indicating that students with regular access to laboratories and libraries demonstrate more positive interest, higher engagement levels and better academic performance in physics compared to those with limited access in Akwa Ibom State and the reason being that there is laboratory and library facilities have the potency in promoting students’ interests and performance in physics. The study concludes that by engaging in experiments and witnessing scientific principles in action, students become more motivated and confident in their abilities, which translates into improved academic performance. One of the recommendations provided was that educational authorities should prioritize the development and maintenance of modern laboratory facilities in schools. Well-equipped laboratories enable students to engage in hands-on experiments, which are crucial for understanding complex scientific concepts in physics and other science subjects.

KEYWORDS: Laboratory and Library Facilities, Students Interest, Performance in Physics and Akwa Ibom State