RELEVANCE OF SCIENTIFIC LABORATORY EXPERIMENTS ON STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN CHEMISTRY SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ONDO WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ONDO STATE

ABSTRACT This study investigates the relevance of scientific laboratory experiments on the academic performance of senior secondary school students in Chemistry in Ondo West Local Government Area, Ondo State. The research adopted a descriptive survey design involving 200 students and 15 Chemistry teachers selected from five secondary schools. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and students’ academic records. Findings revealed that students exposed to regular laboratory experiments performed significantly better than those who received predominantly theoretical instruction. Practical sessions enhanced students’ understanding of abstract concepts, improved retention, and increased interest in Chemistry. The study concludes that laboratory experiments play a critical role in improving students’ academic performance. It recommends increased funding for laboratory facilities and regular practical-based teaching methods in secondary schools.