CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY
3.0 Introduction
This chapter presents the methodology adopted for the study titled "Insufficient
Teaching Resources and Its Impact on Pupils’ Academic Performance". It explains the
procedures and strategies used in carrying out the study in order to achieve the stated
objectives and answer the research questions. Specifically, the chapter discusses the
research design, area of the study, target population, accessible population, sample
population, sampling technique, instruments for data collection, method of data
collection, method of data analysis, and ethical considerations. These methods were
carefully selected to ensure the collection of valid, reliable, and relevant data for the
study.
3.1 Research Design
The study adopted a descriptive research design. This design was considered
appropriate because it allows the researcher to describe the existing situation
regarding the availability and adequacy of teaching resources and examine their impact
on pupils’ academic performance. The descriptive design is suitable for this study since
it enables the collection of quantitative data from respondents through questionnaires
and allows for systematic analysis using descriptive statistical tools. The design aligns
with the research problem and objectives, which seek to identify available teaching
resources, assess their adequacy, and determine how their insufficiency affects pupils’
academic performance in primary schools.
3.2 Area of the Study
The study was conducted in Limbe I Municipality, South West Region of Cameroon.
Limbe I Municipality is an urban area with several government primary schools serving
a large population of pupils. The area was chosen because some government primary
schools in the municipality experience challenges related to insufficient teaching
resources, which have direct implications on pupils’ academic performance.
Government Primary School Bonadikombo Limbe and Government Primary School
Moliwe were specifically selected because they have observable cases of inadequate
teaching resources such as textbooks, instructional materials, and classroom facilities.
These inadequacies particularly affect lower primary classes where concrete learning
materials are essential for effective teaching and learning.
3.3 Target Population
The target population of the study comprises pupils, teachers, and head teachers of all
Government Primary Schools in Limbe I Sub-Division. This population was considered
relevant because these individuals are directly involved in the teaching–learning
process and are therefore in a position to provide useful information on the availability
and adequacy of teaching resources as well as pupils’ academic performance.
3.4 Accessible Population
The accessible population refers to pupils, teachers, and head teachers of Government
Primary School Bonadikombo Limbe and Government Primary School Moliwe in Limbe I
Sub-Division. These schools were accessible to the researcher and provided a
manageable scope for effective data collection while still adequately representing the
problem under investigation.
3.5 Sample Population
The sample population comprised all teachers and pupils of Primary One, Two, and
Three, as well as the head teachers of Government Primary School Bonadikombo Limbe
and Government Primary School Moliwe. In total, the sample consisted of 15 teachers,
including two head teachers, and 80 pupils, giving a total of 95 respondents. The
sample size was considered adequate to generate reliable and valid data for the study.
3.6 Sampling Technique
Purposive sampling technique was used in selecting both the schools and the
respondents for the study. This technique was considered appropriate because the
study focused on specific government primary schools and participants who had direct
experience with the issue of insufficient teaching resources. Teachers, head teachers,
and pupils in Primary One, Two, and Three were deliberately selected because of their
active involvement in teaching and learning activities and their ability to provide
relevant information related to the objectives of the study.
Distribution of the Sample Population
Government Primary School Bonadikombo Limbe: 8 Teachers, 35 Pupils, Total 43
Government Primary School Moliwe: 7 Teachers, 45 Pupils, Total 52
Total: 15 Teachers, 80 Pupils, 95
3.7 Instruments for Data Collection
The instrument used for data collection in this study was a structured questionnaire.
The questionnaire was designed to obtain information on the types of teaching
resources available, their adequacy, and the effects of insufficient teaching resources
on pupils’ academic performance. The questionnaire consisted of both closed-ended
and open-ended questions to allow respondents to express their views clearly and
provide relevant information required for the study.
3.8 Method of Data Collection
Data were collected through the direct administration of questionnaires to the
respondents. The researcher personally visited Government Primary School
Bonadikombo Limbe and Government Primary School Moliwe to administer the
questionnaires. The purpose of the study was clearly explained to the respondents
before the questionnaires were distributed. This method enabled the researcher to
ensure a high response rate and clarify questions where necessary.
3.9 Method of Data Analysis
The data collected from the questionnaires were quantified and analyzed using
descriptive statistical methods. The analysis involved the use of frequencies to show
the number of occurrences of responses, percentages to show the distribution of
responses, averages to determine mean scores, median scores to identify central
values, and standard deviation to measure the dispersion of scores. These tools were
used to summarize, interpret, and compare the data in order to determine how
insufficient teaching resources affect pupils’ academic performance.
3.10 Ethical Considerations
Ethical considerations were strictly observed throughout the study. Permission was
obtained from the school authorities before data collection commenced. Respondents
were informed about the purpose of the study, and their informed consent was
obtained before participation. Confidentiality and anonymity of respondents were
ensured, and all information collected was used strictly for academic purposes. The
dignity, rights, and privacy of all participants were respected throughout the research
process.