Perspectives of secondary school teachers on nature of science in Lagos

Abstract

This research explored the perspectives of teachers on the characteristics of science. The research was a descriptive study using surveys. Science teachers from Lagos state made up the sample for the study. The study answered three research questions and tested two hypotheses. The instrument used was the Science Teachers Nature of Science Assessment Questionnaire (STNOSAQ, r = 0.78). The analysis was carried out with the use of descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings from the study showed that teachers possess inadequate perception of scientific knowledge, inquiry, and enterprise. The result also revealed no significant disparity in the male and female teachers’ perception of nature of science.  However, teachers’ qualifications significantly influence a difference in teachers’ perception of the characteristics of science enterprise. Training of teachers teaching science is recommended for improvement of individual’s perspectives about the nature of science. This could be achieved through professional development programs.