CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY
Introduction
This chapter outlines the methods and procedures that were employed by the researcher to collect data and address the research problem. It is organized into the following sections: research design, study population, sample size, sampling procedures and techniques, data collection methods, data collection instruments, data quality control, data analysis techniques, and measurement of variables.
Research Design
The study adopted an experimental research design, specifically the Solomon Four-Group Design. This approach involved creating two groups within the school setting, allowing the researcher to conduct the experiment and compare outcomes effectively.
Study Population
A population refers to the entire group of individuals or elements sharing common characteristics of interest to the researcher, from which conclusions can be drawn. The study targeted a population of 80 pupils drawn from one primary school, specifically those in Primary One (lower primary level).
Sample Size
A sample size of 66 pupils was selected from the total population of 80. This was determined using the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) sample size table, which indicates that a sample of 66 is adequate for a population of this size.
Sampling Procedures and Techniques
The study employed simple random sampling, a probability sampling technique that ensures each member of the population has an equal chance of selection. The researcher first developed a sampling frame listing all pupils and then randomly selected participants to form the sample.
Data Collection Methods
Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected from primary and secondary sources.
- Primary Data:
Primary data were collected using test questions administered to Primary One pupils. This enabled the researcher to obtain direct responses relevant to the study objectives. - Secondary Data:
Secondary data were obtained from both published and unpublished sources, including books, dissertations, reports, journals, magazines, newspapers, and historical documents. These sources provided background information and context, as well as a basis for comparison with primary data findings.
Data Collection Instruments
The study utilized test questions as the main data collection instrument. These were administered to pupils to gain deeper insight into the research problem and generate relevant responses.
Data Quality Control of Instruments
- Validity:
Validity refers to the extent to which an instrument measures what it is intended to measure. Content validity was assessed using the Content Validity Index (CVI), where experts evaluated the relevance of each item in the instrument.
The CVI was calculated as:
CVI = n/N
Where:
n = number of relevant items
N = total number of items
The computed CVI was 0.9189, which exceeds the acceptable threshold of 0.70, indicating that the instrument was valid. Expert reviews and pilot testing were also conducted to identify and correct any weaknesses in the instrument.
- Reliability:
Reliability was tested using Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient. A reliability coefficient of 0.83 was obtained, which is above the acceptable level of 0.70. This confirmed that the instrument was reliable and consistent in measuring the study variables.
Data Analysis Techniques
- Quantitative Data Analysis:
Quantitative data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study applied univariate analysis to describe variables using frequencies and measures of central tendency. Additionally, Pearson correlation was used to examine relationships between variables, while regression analysis and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were employed to further analyze the data. - Qualitative Data Analysis:
Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic and content analysis. This involved coding responses, identifying patterns, and organizing emerging themes to complement quantitative findings.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical principles were strictly observed throughout the study. Respondents’ identities were kept confidential to ensure anonymity. Participants were informed about the purpose of the study and their consent was obtained prior to participation. The researcher also ensured honesty, avoided bias, and upheld integrity in data collection and reporting.
Limitations of the Study
The researcher faced challenges in organizing and managing lower primary pupils during the study. Additionally, the cost of acquiring computer-based materials was high; however, this was mitigated by downloading the required resources.
