School Science Practical Work in Africa: Experiences and Challenges (Perspectives on Education in Africa)

School Science Practical Work in Africa presents the scope of research and practice of science practical work in African schools. It brings together prominent science educators and researchers from Africa to share their experience and findings on pedagogical innovations and research-informed practices on school science practical work.

The book highlights trends and patterns in the enactment and role of practical work across African countries. Practical work is regarded as intrinsic to science teaching and learning and the form of practical work that is strongly advocated is inquiry-based learning, which signals a definite paradigm shift from the traditional teacher-dominated to a learner-centered approach. The book provides empirical research on approaches to practical work, contextual factors in the enactment of practical work, and professional development in teaching practical work.

This book will be of great interest to academics, researchers and post-graduate students in the fields of science education and educational policy.

Umesh Ramnarain is a Professor in Science Education, and Head of Department in the Department of Science and Technology Education at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.