Students’ Motivation towards Biology Learning During COVID-19 Lockdown as a Predictor of Students’ Performance in Biology in Lagos State

Abstract

Using a correlational research design, this study examined students’ motivation towards
Biology learning during the COVID-19 lockdown as a predictor of students’
performance in Biology in Lagos State. From the four Educational Districts that
pioneered Lagos State, TV/Radio educational broadcasts as well as fifteen schools and
fifteen teachers were purposively selected for the study. The sample size was made up of
218 Senior Secondary Class II Biology students linked via WhatsApp. The data was
gathered via two validated instruments: Students’ Motivation Towards Biology Learning
(SMTBL) and Biology Students’ Performance Test (BSPT). The instruments were created
using Google Forms, with the link shared via WhatsApp. The study answered three
research questions and tested two hypotheses at a .05 level of significance. The data was
analysed in terms of mean, standard deviation, t-test and multiple regression. The
SMTBL and the independent variables (Self-Efficacy, Active Learning Strategies, Science
Learning Value, Performance Goal, Achievement Goal and Learning Environment
Stimulation) had significant joint contributions on the dependent variable (Biology
Students’ Performance) R
2 = 0.96, F(1, 216)=902.63, p<.05. This accounted for 96.2%
of the variation in Biology students’ performance. There was a significant influence of
gender on students’ motivation and performance in biology in favour of the females (t
(216) =2.76, p=.01). It is therefore recommended that Biology teachers should use
participatory and collaborative strategies to arouse and sustain students’ motivation and
performance in Biology irrespective of gender during and beyond the COVID-19
lockdown. Also, the factors of motivations should be considered during curriculum
planning and implementation of the 21st Century Biology Curriculum.