Effect of Integrated Group-based Mastery Learning Approach and Discussion Method of Teaching on Achievement in Social Studies in Delta State

Abstract

The study examined the effect of integrated Group-based mastery learning model and discussion method on upper basic level students’ achievement in Social Studies in Delta State. Pre-test, post-test, control group quasi-experimental design with 2x2 factorial design was employed for the study. This represents two (2) instructional methods (Discussion and Mastery Learning Approach) and Two (2) moderating variables-location and gender. The sample size for this study comprises of 300 upper basic education level schools’ students in Delta State selected using simple random sampling technique consisting of 130 males and 170 female students. Three (3) research hypotheses were raised and tested in this study. The instrument used to generate data for the study was the “Social Studies Achievement Test” (SSAT). The participants responded to 30 items of achievements test in a 4-point Likert scale. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Analysis of Covariance at 0.05 alpha level of significance. The research findings revealed that there is significant effect between discussion and Mastery Learning Approach on achievement in Social Studies, there is significant difference in the mean scores gained between students in urban and rural areas on achievement in Social Studies; there is no significant interaction effect of instructional methods and gender on achievement in Social Studies. Therefore, it is recommended that Social Studies teachers in upper basic level school should adopt Integrated Group-based mastery learning approach for teaching Social Studies as it is more useful and effective when compared with discussion or traditional learning approaches. Also, Social Studies curriculum developers should design a Social Studies curriculum based on integrated Group-based mastery learning in teaching Social Studies in upper basic education level schools to promote its usage and visibility in Delta State.

Keywords: Mastery Learning Approach, Discussion, Social Studies, Learning, Achievement