THE ACT OF TEACHING AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE IN THE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL: THE CASE STUDY OF ASSIN DISTRICT IN THE CENTRAL REGION

ABSTRACT

The study focused on the act of teaching  Agricultural science in the Junior High Schools after the implementation of the new education reforms in 1987. The study  was  a  descriptive  survey.  The  sample  consisted  of  all  the  agricultural science teachers in the Assin North District of the Central Reg ion of Ghana. The result  indicated  that  all  Agricultural  Science  teachers  in  the  district  were professionals and  experienced who were using the right  method of teaching  but they  devoted  more  time  for  theory  than  practical  lessons.  Textbooks,  syllabus, farm   tools  were  insufficient  in  the  schools.  Farm  assistants,  library  and laboratories were not available in all the schools. The results pointed out clearly that within the academic year theory topics in the syllabus were fairly treated and practical topics (activities) were unsatisfactorily handled.As  a  result  it  was  recommended  that  the  Agricultural  science  teachers should devote equal time for theory and practical lessons. Land sited for schools should be large enough so that part can be demarcated for agricultural activities. Agricultural  sciences  teachers  should  be  encouraged  and  supported  to write  different  agricultural  textbooks  to  supplement  the  one  provided  by  the CRDD of GES. Animal enterprise which is not popular with the schools should be encouraged by GES, DEO, PTA and other organizations for the students to gain practical  skills  on  animal  rearing.  Simple  farm  tools,  equipment,  library, laboratory  and  farm  assistance  should  be  provided  by  the  GES  in  sufficient quantities to help students gain interest in the subject.