AN ASSESSMENT OF SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT VARIABLES AND BIOLOGY LEARNING AMONG SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN JOS NORTH LGA, PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

This study assessed school environment variables and Biology learning among senior secondary school students in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised 2,071 Biology students in 26 public secondary schools in Jos North Local Government Area. A sample of 250 was used using simple random sampling at each stage. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire (SEVBLQ) which was content validated by experts. Reliability was established through a pilot study, yielded reliability coefficient of 0.711. Questionnaires were administered personally by the researcher and trained research assistants and retrieved immediately after completion. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics Mean and Standard Deviation. Findings revealed that students perceived physical facilities such as well-equipped laboratories, conducive classrooms, and functional libraries as highly influential factors in their understanding of Biology (Mean > 2.50). The availability and utilization of instructional materials were also perceived to enhance students’ engagement and comprehension of biological concepts. The study concluded that students perceive a conducive and supportive school environment as an important factor associated with improved Biology learning. It recommended that the Plateau State Ministry of Education should prioritize infrastructural development and instructional material provision.