Authors :
Frederick Akosah Sekyere; Ernest Samuel Fervlo; Isabella Agbesi; Frank Aduo; Michael Tabbey-Appiah
Volume/Issue :
Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 2 - February
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/2vab86yc
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/4v8u6na9
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26feb564
Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.
Abstract :
This study investigated the key factors shaping senior high school students' choices of learning styles in
Ghanaian science education through a mixed-methods design. Drawing on VARK learning styles theory and constructivist
principles, it examined how individual preferences, instructional approaches, and contextual elements influence students'
science learning tactics. Data were gathered via open-ended questionnaires from 210 purposively sampled students across
three Volta Region senior high schools, augmented by semi-structured focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics like
frequencies, modes, and percentages showed visual and kinesthetic styles as most common, with students favoring
practical activities and video resources. Inquiry-based instruction emerged as the primary driver of strategic learning
selections, promoting hands-on involvement and real-world application. External elements, including digital tools and lab
access, also played a major role in guiding these preferences. The results underscore the importance of learner-focused,
resource-supported, and multi-sensory pedagogies to boost science education in Ghana's secondary schools. These insights
carry broad relevance for policy reforms, educator preparation, and curriculum reforms throughout Sub-Saharan Africa,
stressing flexible, context-appropriate teaching to advance science proficiency
Keywords :
Learning Strategies, Learning Styles, Teaching Methods, Science Education, Ghana.
References :
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- Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
- Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2018). Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.
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- Hofstein, A., & Lunetta, V. N. (2004). The laboratory in science education: Foundations for the twenty-first century. Science Education, 88(1), 28–54.
- Lujan, H. L., & DiCarlo, S. E. (2006). First-year medical students prefer multiple learning styles. Advances in Physiology Education, 30(1), 13–16.
- Marcourt, A., Osei, D., & Appiah, R. (2022). Teacher-centred practices and poor academic performance in Ghanaian science classrooms. West African Journal of Education, 42(2), 63–78.
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- Owusu-Acheampong, J., Agyei, D., & Owusu, A. (2022). Parental involvement and student learning strategies in Ghana. Journal of African Educational Studies, 12(4), 98–113.
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- Piaget, J. (1954). The construction of reality in the child. New York, NY: Basic Books.
- Prince, M. (2004). Does active learning work? A review of the research. Journal of Engineering Education, 93(3), 223–231.
- Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press.
- WAEC. (2021). Chief Examiner's Report on the WASSCE for School Candidates. Accra: West African Examinations Council.
- WATHI. (2023). Khan Academy’s role in Ghana’s education transformation. WATHI Research Briefs, 9(1), 1–6.
- Zimmerman, B. J. (2002). Becoming a self-regulated learner: An overview. Theory into Practice, 41(2), 64–70.
This study investigated the key factors shaping senior high school students' choices of learning styles in
Ghanaian science education through a mixed-methods design. Drawing on VARK learning styles theory and constructivist
principles, it examined how individual preferences, instructional approaches, and contextual elements influence students'
science learning tactics. Data were gathered via open-ended questionnaires from 210 purposively sampled students across
three Volta Region senior high schools, augmented by semi-structured focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics like
frequencies, modes, and percentages showed visual and kinesthetic styles as most common, with students favoring
practical activities and video resources. Inquiry-based instruction emerged as the primary driver of strategic learning
selections, promoting hands-on involvement and real-world application. External elements, including digital tools and lab
access, also played a major role in guiding these preferences. The results underscore the importance of learner-focused,
resource-supported, and multi-sensory pedagogies to boost science education in Ghana's secondary schools. These insights
carry broad relevance for policy reforms, educator preparation, and curriculum reforms throughout Sub-Saharan Africa,
stressing flexible, context-appropriate teaching to advance science proficiency
Keywords :
Learning Strategies, Learning Styles, Teaching Methods, Science Education, Ghana.