Abstract:
This study investigated factors affecting the implementation of Science curriculum in preschools
this study was to assess the extent to which the adequacy of science apparatus and
materials affect the implementation of science curriculum in pre-schools.
This study adopted descriptive survey design. The objectives of the study included
establishing the activities pre-school teachers involved learners in during science lessons and
assessing the adequacy of science apparatus and materials in pre-schools. It also sought to
establish the extent to which pre-school teachers prepared and used instructional materials.
Stratified sampling and random sampling techniques were employed in the study. A sample
of 62 pre-school teachers and 50 school administrators were selected from both public and
private pre-schools. Questionnaires and observation checklist were used.
The study found that the major factors affecting the implementation of science curriculum
were; inadequate involvement of learners in carrying out some of the child-centred activities
involved in the scientific method of learning, inadequacy of science teaching materials and
apparatus, poor storage facilities for keeping teaching and learning resources, and lack of
enough science textbooks
The findings of the study will be used by pre-school teachers and the school administrators to
improve the teaching of science. in pre-schools through involving learners in carrying out
science activities, preparation and use of science teaching materials and use of teaching
methods which encourage learners to use scientific/inquiry. Based on the research findings of
the current study, it was recommended that the Ministry of Education, Science and
Technology should consider extending SMASE in-service training programme to pre-school
teachers to induct them on the current practices of teaching science. It was recommended that
pre-school teachers should embrace the practice of improvisation and make their own science
teaching and learning resources using locally available materials and the county government
should also consider increasing allocation of funds to pre-schools to enable them purchase
science text books and other learning materials.
