Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Aminu Nuraddeen Complete Project II
Aminu Nuraddeen Complete Project II
KATSIINA STATE
BY
AUGUST, 2023
i
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that the content of this research project is true reflection of my work and that all
ii
APPROVAL PAGE
This research work titled “Fish Farming in secondary schools: It’s Implication to promote
Agricultural Practices by Students of Demonstration School, Dutsin-ma Katsina Sate” conducted
by Aminu Nuradden Yammama meets the regulations governing the award of Professional
Diploma in Education (PDE) with Isa Kaita College of Education Dutsin-ma in affiliation with
Institute of Education Ahmadu Bello University Zaria
(External Examiner)
iii
DEDICATION
This project is hereby dedicated to my parents who provided me with all the essential needs
iv
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have contributed to the completion
of this research project. Without their support, guidance, and encouragement, this study would
insights, and continuous encouragement propelled this research in the right direction. Your
thoughtful guidance and constructive feedback were invaluable throughout the research process.
I would like to thank my colleagues and classmates who provided essential insights and engaged
in stimulating discussions that helped shape the direction of this research. Your support and
I am grateful to the participants of this study, the students of Demonstration Secondary School
Dutsin-Ma, whose active involvement and candid responses enriched the findings of this
research. Their willingness to share their experiences and perspectives is greatly appreciated.
My appreciation also extends to my friends and family for their unwavering support and
understanding throughout this journey. Your encouragement and belief in me were a constant
source of motivation.
v
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the implications of integrating fish farming into secondary school
curricula as a means to promote agricultural practices among students, using Demonstration
Secondary School Dutsin-Ma as a case study. This research employs a quantitative technique to
comprehensively assess the impact of fish farming on students' engagement with agricultural
practices. Quantitative data is gathered through questionnaire surveys that measure students'
attitudes towards agriculture and their perceived competency in relevant skills. The findings
suggest that the inclusion of fish farming in the secondary school curriculum positively
influences students' attitudes towards agriculture. The hands-on nature of fish farming
encourages active participation and practical learning, enhancing students' understanding of
ecological processes, animal husbandry, and sustainable farming practices. Furthermore, the
program cultivates teamwork, responsibility, and critical thinking skills as students collaborate
in maintaining the fish farm and solving challenges that arise. The implications of this study are
significant for educational institutions and policymakers alike. Integrating fish farming into
secondary school curricula can serve as a model for fostering agricultural awareness and
interest among students. By providing real-world experiences in food production, schools can
contribute to building a future generation of environmentally conscious and skilled
agriculturalists. The insights gained from this case study can inform the design and
implementation of similar programs in other educational settings, contributing to the overall
promotion of sustainable agricultural practice.
vi
TABLE OF CONTENT
Title page- - - - - - - - - - - -i
Declaration- - - - - - - - - - - -ii
Approval Page- - - - - - - - - - -iii
Dedication- - - - - - - - - - - - iv
Acknowledgement- - - - - - - - - - -v
Abstract- - - - - - - - - - - -vi
Table of content - - - - - - - - - - -vii
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction- - - - - - - - - - -1
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 Introduction- - - - - - - - - - -4
2.1.6 Ways of Integrating fish farming into the secondary school curriculum- - -8
vii
2.2.2 Good Source of Animal Protein- - - - - - - -9
CHAPTER THREE
CHAPTER FOUR
CHAPTER FIVE
References- - - - - - - - - - - -37
viii
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Agriculture is the backbone of the Nigerian economy, and it is estimated that over 70% of the
population is engaged in agricultural practices. Despite this, the sector is facing numerous
challenges, such as climate change, soil degradation, and low productivity. To address these
challenges, it is essential to promote sustainable agricultural practices and equip the next
generation with the necessary knowledge and skills to sustain the sector's growth.
secondary schools. Agricultural education in secondary schools provides students with hands-on
experience in various aspects of farming, including crop production, livestock management, and
fish farming. Such experiences can be beneficial in creating awareness of the importance of
However, in many parts of Nigeria, including Dutsin-ma Local Government Area, young people
have been increasingly moving away from agriculture, resulting in a decline in agricultural
productivity. The local government area is known to have Zobe dam, which provides
opportunities for fish farming. Despite this, many young people in the area have failed to take up
fish farming. Therefore, there is a need to explore ways to promote fish farming among young
people in the area and highlight the importance of including fish farming as part of agricultural
1
Several studies have shown that fish farming has numerous benefits, including providing a
For example, according to a study by Akinwumi et al. (2018), fish farming can significantly
contribute to food security and economic growth in Nigeria. Furthermore, a study by Adeleke et
al. (2016) found that fish farming can be a viable means of income generation and employment
creation in Nigeria.
In light of these benefits, this study aims to explore the importance of promoting fish farming in
secondary schools in Dutsin-ma Local Government Area and its implications for sustainable
agriculture. Specifically, the study will examine the perceptions of selected secondary school
students towards fish farming as a sustainable agricultural practice and assess how fish farming
can be integrated into the school curriculum to provide educational opportunities for students.
The study will also examine the environmental and economic benefits of promoting fish farming
in the local government area and highlight ways in which it can contribute to sustainable
agriculture practices.
The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of promoting fish farming in
2
1.2 Research Questions:
1. Do the selected 50 students have the background to develop interest toward fish farming
practice?
2. Can fish farming be limited by the students of Demonstration Secondary School, Isa
3. Is there a positive impact of the training being received by the students of Demonstration
The study is expected to develop the interest of secondary school students in promoting fish
opportunities. The results will encourage the students to promote fish farming and other
3
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 INTRODUCTION
Fishery is a branch of agriculture that deals with rearing of fish and other aquatic creatures for
human use. Fishery according to Olaitan and Omonia (2009) is the branch of agriculture that
deals with the use of water to culture types of fish species. Fish is an important source of food
nutrient and contains up to 40% of protein consumed as diet by man (Asogwa et al., 2013;
Brown et al., 2017). In the view of Asogwa et al. (2013), fish is an aquatic cold-blooded animal
that lives in water and which body temperature fluctuate within the surrounding environment. It
means that fish is naturally adapted to water. Apart from serving as food, man has domesticated
the fish which became adapted and is reared under various artificial water bodies with other
numerous benefits to human kind. For instance, the skin of some species of fish are used for
leather works and polishing materials and besides, fish scales yield substances that could be
In Nigerian secondary educational setting, fish production is hitherto, studied under agricultural
science. However, trade subjects were recently introduced in the curriculum of secondary
schools. Fishery is one of the 34 trade subjects introduced into the Nigerian secondary school
curriculum to provide avenue for learners to acquire livelihood skills (Okafor and Ifeanyieze,
2014, Asogwa, 2013). Fishery trade subject teaches the students entrepreneurial skills for
and Development Council (NERDC, 2009). Consequently, Orji (2013) mentioned among others
4
school was to address the dearth of technical skills and a growing demand for skill services in
Nigerian economy. For effective teaching of any aspect of fishery trade subject in the secondary
schools, the teacher needs both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to be able to teach the
students using the appropriate and recommended teaching resources. Besides, Ogwo and Oranu
(as cited in Asogwa, 2016) asserted that for teachers of vocational education with fishery trade
knowledge for effective performance in their profession. Moreover, Asogwa (2016) contended
that a situation whereby teachers without refresher programmes implemented a new curriculum
after long time training gap does not auger well for effectiveness in the teaching and learning in a
new era.
Teachers in secondary schools in Nigeria have been found to use various pedagogical methods at
their disposal in teaching agriculture. The most common methods in agriculture classes are the
lecture, discussion, digital learning, demonstration and tours and field trips (Munyao, 2014;
Daluba, 2013).
Lectures usually take place in a classroom format. It is also referred to as talk and chalk or
textbook method (Gbamanja, 1991). This method is teacher centered with little participation
from learners (Troussas et al., 2020). The teacher is seen as the repository of all knowledge
while the students are passive recipients of knowledge transmitted by the teachers in the learning
process (Troussas et al., 2020). Properly structured lectures may be the best teaching method
5
especially when suited to the transmission of conceptual and systematic knowledge (Charlton,
2006). In different studies, the major advantage of the lecture method is the ability to get a huge
amount of information to a lot of people in a short amount of time (Charlton, 2006; Troussas et
al., 2020) although retention of the information might be a challenge (Troussas et al., 2020).
The use of discussions as a primary teaching method in agriculture allows the teacher to
stimulate critical thinking on the learners (Troussas et al., 2020). This approach also helps the
teacher establish a rapport with the students, demonstrating an appreciation of their contributions
and challenging them to think more deeply and to articulate their ideas more clearly. The
frequent questions asked by both the teacher and the students provide a means of measuring
learning and exploring in depth the key concepts of the course (Saina et al., 2012). Through class
room discussions, a set of acquired skills that is necessary for establishing and developing
The usual purpose of outdoor training through tours and field trips is to develop teamwork skills
(Troussas et al., 2020). Field trips to agricultural centers, industries, farmlands, etc., where
students get firsthand experience and practice of the theoretical methods of agriculture, can prove
to be very helpful (Adom, 2017). However, assignments, write-ups, and projects must be given
to students to aid them to participate effectively in the field trips (Adom, 2017). Tours and field
trips in secondary schools may however disorient the school time table and hence need proper
timing such as during the school mid-breaks and holidays. The field trip is one of the most
6
complex and expensive activities in the educational system and hence should be planned as an
integral part of the curriculum rather than as an isolated activity (Olowa, 2009).
Through the demonstration method, the teacher does whatever the learners are expected to do at
the end of the lesson by showing them how to do it and explaining the step-by-step process to
them (Ameh et al., 2007). The demonstration may include diagrams, charts, e-learning, and other
illustrative materials accompanied by an oral explanation (Saina et al., 2012). The audience
observes the process, listens to the explanation, and poses questions during or at the conclusion
of the demonstration (Saina et al., 2012). The demonstration method increases students’ interest
and understanding and consequently promotes high achievement rate. Demonstration procedures
in agriculture may include machine milking, how to preserve fish, how to graft a mango tree, or
Technology provides the possibility of including multimedia and interactive resources that can
make adult learning more attractive and realistic, encouraging and even inspiring adults to
develop their skills (Krouska et al., 2019). In reference to the youth who are the targeted future
farmers, this technology can enhance their skills development and its application to the food
industry. Videos, radio, mobile phones, and television are among the information communication
technology (ICT) tools that are gaining popularity in enhancing farmers’ access to agricultural-
related knowledge and information (United Nations, 2010). Due to their social learning nature,
videos in particular have a high potential to stimulate social learning because they combine
visual and audio elements that facilitate internalization and contextualization of knowledge or
7
information, which enable farmers to share and learn from experiences (Bentley et al.,2013;
MacGregor,2007). When incorporated into the classroom setting, the social learning nature of
the ICT devices can fast-track skills development in agriculture and be the bait to making youths
2.1.6 Ways of Integrating Fish Farming into the Secondary School Curriculum.
A thorough analysis of the existing school curriculum will be carried out to identify potential
areas where fish farming can be integrated. Subjects such as biology and agriculture or any other
relevant subject will be reviewed. Examining the curriculum's learning objectives, content, and
practical activities, or case studies. However, these can achieve by expert interviews such as
agricultural educators, fish farmers, or agricultural extension officers to gather insights into how
fish farming can be effectively integrated into the curriculum, their expertise can provide
valuable guidance on aligning fish farming activities with the curriculum and educational
objectives.
The benefits of fish farming are multifaceted, touching upon various aspects that contribute to its
appeal. This practice goes beyond addressing the growing demand for seafood and holds
advantages that span economic, environmental, and nutritional dimensions. There are several
Global statistics revealed that the fish farming sector employs about 25.4 million people in
Africa, while more than 17.6 million are involved in other value chain aspects of fish farming
8
(World Bank, 2013; FAO, 2016). Olaoye (2013) affirmed that fish farming is profitable and can
create good job opportunities while contributing to investor’s livelihood. Likewise, Iheke and
Nwagbara (2014) equally posited that fish farming is a profitable and viable investment capable
According to Prein and Ahmed (2000), fish is rich in iron, calcium, iodine and vitamins. Hence,
it serves as a source of nutrient to the body. The nutritional benefits derived from fish cannot be
vitamins (FAO, 2006). Fish supplies 20% of proteinous food substances consumed in sub-
Saharan Africa, it is also a good food source to millions of Africans, (FAO, 2014).
Income is generated from fish farming from all the value chains of the enterprise (World Bank,
2016). Fish contributed significantly to the Nigerian GDP in 2018 (National Bureau of Statistics,
2018). Islam (2017) also posited that seasonality availability of fish differs from that of crops as
it helps in reducing seasonal vulnerability among rural poor fisher folks by providing income and
Fish farming indirectly contributes to household food security of fisher folks through increasing
income from the enterprise which in turn, can be utilised to purchase other staple foods (Béné et
al., 2007; Aiga et al., 2009). Given its relatively cheaper cost, fish has become the major source
of nutrition for the people of Nigeria, it is the main product consumed in terms of animal protein
9
in Nigeria. Apart from the fact that fishes are great sources of affordable protein which the
Several constraints inherent in fish farming have been highlighted by various scholars. Baruwa et
al., (2012) identified epileptic electricity supply, insufficient capital, high-cost of inputs, high-
cost of labor and water pollution. In the same vein, Olaoye et al., (2013) indicated high cost of
feeding, lack of storage facilities and predators as major limitations to fish farming. Similarly,
Asiedu et al., (2017) equally reported that lack of access to funds and good fingerlings are major
Furthermore, Niyonkuru, Nibona and Moreau (2015) grouped major factors militating against
fish farming into: physical , technical material and financial factors , while citing topographical
and soil constraints as major physical factors, insufficient technical skills as a technical factor
and use of rudimentary equipment and poor packaging for transporting fingerlings as major
material factors, while extreme poverty, lack of financial support or the lack of micro-finance
observed by Akpabio and Iyang (2007) ranges from production (inadequate pond sizes,
cultural (predations by animals), poor access to credit facilities poor policy formulation and
poor yield from local technology), marketing (high cost of marketing fish produce, low selling
price of produce).
10
Studies centered on youths also showed that young fish farmers are faced with myriads of
constraints in fish enterprise. For example, Nnodim and Abbey (2019) in a study on constraints
to fish farming amongst youths highlighted inadequate farm lands, poor skills in modern fish
farming practices, insufficient time for practical sessions, poor fishing gears, poor funding and
lack-lustre attitude towards vocational subjects as factors constraining fish farming among senior
Since fish farming involves the rearing of different species of fish under controlled environment,
several facilities exist in aquaculture to achieve this. Some of it is: flow through systems also
known as raceways, ponds, cages, tanks and recirculating systems. (Ozigbo et al., 2014)
A fish pond is a controlled structure, artificial lake, or reservoir stocked with fish and used in
aquaculture for fish farming, recreational fishing or ornamental purposes. The practice of
culturing fish in ponds developed because growing fish in ponds can be a more useful practice
for some purposes, when compared to catching fishes from lakes, rivers, or streams (Ozigbo et
al, 2014). Freshwater fish ponds differ according to their source of water, the way in which water
can be drained from the pond, material and method used for construction and the method of use
for fish farming (Ajana, 2003). Fish pond system is the commonest agricultural techniques in
Nigeria (FAO, 2002). Tidal ponds, reservoirs, storage tanks, raceways and fish farm tanks are
11
2.4.2 Earthen ponds
These are artificial dams, reservoir, or lakes constructed for different species of fishes in order to
retain some features of the natural aquatic environment. Earthen ponds are constructed manually,
or mechanically, in a carefully selected site with high water retention ability. Earthen ponds were
usually constructed with the use of shovels and diggers. However, in recent times, the use of
excavators to dig ponds has been on the increase. An excavator can dig a pond that ten men will
ordinarily dig in five days within just ten hours (Abiodun, 2016). For commercial pond
construction, the use of excavator is more cost effective than manual construction. It also saves
Concrete ponds are used in intensive fish farming systems. Here, 4-5 coaches of blocks are used
to construct the pond above the ground level, using cement, sand and gravel in ratio 1:2:4
respectively with water. The pond floor can be well concreted to a thickness between 7.5cm-
10cm. Walls are plastered to a thickness of 5cm. The bottom can also be in concrete but for
reasons of construction costs, only if the pond size does not exceed 200 m 2. Brick or stone walls
must have strong foundations and, if they are built with bricks or blocks, they must be plastered,
in order to avoid the effects of erosion. They are usually smaller than earthen ponds and should
not exceed 1,000 m2 surface area. This type of pond is more expensive to build and, therefore,
Fish farming can also be carried out in outdoor or indoor concrete or plastic tanks. Tanks can be
inform of small aquaria (glass or plastic) or large fibreglasses. Production tanks varies in size and
12
shape, however, round tanks between 5,000 to 10,000 liters are most commonly used (Aquatic
life Support Systems, 2013). Tanks should be noncorrosive, therefore, plastic or fiberglass is
usually recommended. Smooth round tanks with a conical shaped bottom are considered
advantageous as this will assist with waste solids disposal during draining.
13
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The research design used for this study is survey. This is because data gotten through this
assessment tool to provide information on which to base sound decisions. It also serves as a
foundation for more investigations. This research method was adopted because it offers
opportunity for the collation of facts and information from a wide spectrum of respondents;
The study area is Demonstration Staff School at Isa Kaita College of Education, located in
Dutsin-ma Local government Area of Katsina State. It is an integral part of the educational
landscape in the region. The school's history is rooted in its commitment to providing quality
education and fostering a nurturing learning environment for students. From its inception,
Demonstration Staff School has been guided by a mission to provide a holistic and balanced
education to its students. The school's philosophy centers around cultivating intellectual
curiosity, critical thinking, and character development. Throughout its history, Demonstration
Staff School has consistently upheld a tradition of academic excellence. The school has
continually adapted its curriculum to align with evolving educational standards and global
14
3.3 Population and Sampling Size
The population targeted for this study consists of students and teachers of Demonstration staff
school Isa Kaita College of Education Dutsin-ma. The participants were chosen on the basis of
convenience and availability. 50 participants were selected. The sample forms a good
representation of the population. This sample size was used in order to generate a valid data from
the population.
Data collected for this study were collected from primary sources. The primary data was
collected through the use of questionnaire which was self-administered to the respondents and
also retrieved from them in the same way. The data were obtained by administering the
instrument on 50 participants in the study. A total of 50 copies of the instrument were properly
The data collected in the questionnaire is analyzed using simple parentage (%) expression where
the number of the responses is divided by the total number of respondent and multiplies by 100
15
CHAPTER FOUR
4.1 INTRODUCTION
The chapter present analysis and interpretation for data collection, the data are presented in a
tabular form using frequency count and simple percentage. The analysis of the data collected is
organized using each research question posed by the study. All questions in the questionnaire
that relate to a particular research question were used to answer that research question.
Not sure 5 8%
TOTAL 50 100%
From the above table, 21 of the respondents (44%) are in support of fish farming and considered
it as important, while 6 respondents (12%) are of the view that fish farming is not important or
remain optimistic. Therefore, fish farming will be accepted by majority of the students of
16
Table 2: What do you believe are the benefits of fish farming?
TOTAL 50 100%
The table above reveals that a significant majority of the students (50%) recognized the
importance of fish farming in providing a source of nutritious food. This response aligns with the
fact that fish farming is a crucial contributor to global food security, as fish is a rich source of
protein and essential nutrients. Furthermore, 24% of the students acknowledged that fish farming
creates employment opportunities. 16% of the students recognized the role of fish farming in
conserving aquatic ecosystems. Moreover, 10% of the students identified that fish farming
contributes to local economic development. This response underscores the economic significance
of fish farming as a viable livelihood option, particularly in regions with suitable conditions for
aquaculture. Interestingly, none of the students selected "None of the above," suggesting that all
the options presented were perceived as having some degree of relevance or significance.
17
Table 3: What are the potential challenges or drawbacks of fish farming?
TOTAL 50 100%
A significant number of students (30%) recognizing "High initial investment cost" as a challenge
in fish farming reflects a common concern in the aquaculture industry. The fact that 24% of
students acknowledged the need for "specialized knowledge and skills" highlights an essential
aspect of fish farming. The concern of 16% of students regarding "Water pollution and
environmental impacts" echoes a legitimate apprehension associated with intensive fish farming
practices. The recognition of "Limited market demand for fish products" as a potential challenge
by 18% of students indicates the importance of market analysis and understanding consumer
preferences. The response of 12% of students indicating "none of the above" implies that they
might not be aware of or fully comprehend the challenges associated with fish farming. This
response underscores the need for education and awareness-raising efforts to inform students
18
Table 4: Have you had any prior experience or exposure to fish farming?
TOTAL 50 100%
From the above table, 36% of the students reported having "hands-on experience with fish
farming". It indicates that a significant proportion of the surveyed students have practical
exposure to fish farming, likely through direct involvement in aquaculture activities or projects.
The response of 44% of students stating that they possess "theoretical knowledge about fish
farming" suggests that a substantial number of students have learned about fish farming through
educational curricula or other theoretical sources. This theoretical knowledge may include
information on fish biology, aquaculture practices, sustainable farming techniques, and the
economic and environmental aspects of fish farming. The response of 20% of students indicating
that they have "no experience or knowledge about fish farming" highlights a potential gap in
their exposure to the subject. It may signify that these students have not encountered formal
19
Table 5: Would you be interested in learning more about fish farming and its practices?
Not sure 8 16
TOTAL 50 100%
The table above shows 40% of the students expressed a high level of interest in learning more
about fish farming is quite promising. Another positive aspect is that 30% of the students showed
some level of interest in learning more about fish farming. This suggests that a substantial
portion of the respondents is open to exploring the subject and might be willing to engage in
further learning activities or discussions. The response of 14% of the students stating that they
are not interested in learning more about fish farming may indicate a lack of awareness or
interest in agricultural practices in general. The response of 16% of the students being unsure
about their interest in learning more about fish farming emphasizes the need for greater exposure
to the topic.
20
Table 6: How do you perceive fish farming as a potential career option?
TOTAL 50 100%
The response of 40% of students perceiving fish farming as a "promising and rewarding career
option" suggests a positive outlook towards the potential of aquaculture as a career path. And the
response of 20% of students regarding fish farming as an "average career option" indicates a
relatively neutral stance. While the response of 24% of students expressing that fish farming is
"not a preferred career option" suggests that they have reservations or concerns about pursuing a
career in aquaculture. And lastly the response of 16% of students indicating that they "haven't
thought about it" indicates a lack of awareness or consideration of fish farming as a potential
career path. These students might not have been exposed to information about aquaculture as a
profession or may not have seriously considered it as an option for their future career.
21
Table 7: Do you believe that integrating fish farming into the school curriculum would be
beneficial?
TOTAL 50 100%
The highest percentage of students (40%) expressing that integrating fish farming into the school
curriculum would be "highly beneficial" signifies a widespread belief in the advantages of such
an initiative. The response of 36% of students stating that integrating fish farming would be
uncertainty. The 12% of students who responded "No, it would not be beneficial" have
reservations or skepticism about the value of incorporating fish farming into the school
curriculum. The response of 12% of students who were "Not sure" reflects a lack of confidence
in their opinion regarding the potential benefits of integrating fish farming into the curriculum.
This response might be due to a lack of knowledge or understanding about fish farming or the
Table 8: Are you aware of any environmental or sustainability benefits associated with fish farming?
22
RESPONSE POPULATION PERCENTAGE
TOTAL 50 100%
The fact that half of the students (56%) expressed awareness of the environmental benefits
associated with fish farming is encouraging. This indicates that a significant portion of the
surveyed students has some understanding of the positive impacts that fish farming can have on
the environment and sustainability. The response from 32% of students stating that they are "not
aware of any environmental benefits" suggests a need for greater education and information
dissemination on the subject. Fish farming, when practiced sustainably, can offer various
environmental benefits, such as reduced pressure on wild fish stocks, habitat conservation, and
efficient water use. The response of 12% of students indicating that they are "not sure" about the
environmental benefits of fish farming may reflect a lack of sufficient knowledge on the topic.
This highlights the importance of providing students with accurate and comprehensive
Table 9: Would you be willing to participate in practical fish farming activities as part of your school
curriculum?
23
RESPONSE POPULATION PERCENTAGE
Not sure 4 8%
TOTAL 50 100%
The fact that 50% of students expressed a "highly willing" attitude toward participating in
practical fish farming activities is a positive indication of their interest and enthusiasm. The
response of 30% of students indicating they are "somewhat willing" to participate implies a level
of interest but with potential reservations or uncertainties. This group may benefit from further
information and encouragement to fully understand the value of practical fish farming activities
and their relevance to their education. The 12% of students who responded with a clear "No, I
would not be willing" may have various reasons for their reluctance. It could be due to a lack of
interest in agriculture-related activities, concerns about the practicality of the activity, or personal
preferences for other types of learning experiences. The small percentage (8%) of students
responding with "Not sure" may indicate a need for more information or clarification about what
practical fish farming activities entail. It is therefore accepted that the students of Demonstration
school are willing to participate practical fish farming activities as part of their school
curriculum.
Table 10: In your opinion, how important is it to promote fish farming among young people?
24
RESPONSE POPULATION PERCENTAGE
Not sure 3 6%
TOTAL 50 100%
From the table above, 54% suggests that the student strongly believes in the significance of
promoting fish farming among young people, likely due to its potential benefits for food security,
sustainable livelihoods, and environmental conservation. 30% indicates that the student
recognizes some level of importance in promoting fish farming among young people, but they
may have reservations or uncertainties about its full impact. Students who chose Not important
(10%) option do not consider promoting fish farming among young people to be a priority or
may have doubts about its benefits compared to other initiatives or industries. Lastly, 6% are not
sure, this response shows that the student is uncertain or lacks enough information to form a
clear opinion about the importance of promoting fish farming among young people. This result
indicates that the students agree it is important to promote fish farming among young people.
25
Table 11: Which of the following fish farming concepts do you believe could be effectively integrated
TOTAL 50 100%
The results from the above table indicate that the majority of teachers (24%) believe that all the
listed fish farming concepts could be effectively integrated into the school curriculum. Among
the individual concepts, "Fish pond construction and management" received the highest level of
support, with 28% of teachers choosing this option. This indicates that a significant portion of
the teachers sees practical value in learning about how to set up and manage fish ponds. "Fish
nutrition and feeding" garnered the second-highest support, with 24% of teachers selecting this
concept. On the other hand, "Fish health and disease management" and "Fish breeding and
genetics" received relatively lower support, with 14% and 10% of teachers choosing these
options, respectively. The lower percentage could be attributed to a lack of awareness among
teachers regarding the significance of fish health and breeding or a lesser interest in these
particular aspects of fish farming. Furthermore, the 24% of teachers who advocate for integrating
all the concepts may be more inclined to see the interconnectedness of different aspects of fish
farming and recognize how a holistic understanding can lead to better decision-making and
problem-solving in real-world aquaculture scenarios.
Table 12: In your opinion, which grade levels or courses would be most suitable for incorporating fish
26
RESPONSE POPULATION PERCENTAGE
TOTAL 50 100%
A total of 15 teachers, constituting 30% of the surveyed participants, believe that fish farming
activities or lessons would be most effectively integrated into the primary school level. This
result suggests that a significant proportion of teachers sees the potential benefits of introducing
fish farming concepts to younger students. 12 teachers, representing 24% of the teachers,
consider junior secondary school as the most appropriate level for incorporating fish farming
activities or lessons. At this level, students are typically more mature and capable of engaging in
more complex concepts related to fish farming. 9 teachers, making up 18% of the teachers,
believe that senior secondary school is the most suitable level for incorporating fish farming
activities or lessons. At this stage, students are more academically advanced and may have a
clearer idea of their career interests. Including fish farming education at this level can provide
more in-depth knowledge of advanced aquaculture practices, sustainable fish farming methods,
and the economic aspects of the industry. 8 teachers accounting for 16% of the teachers, view
vocational or technical education programs as an appropriate setting for integrating fish farming
activities or lessons. 6 teachers, comprising 12% of the teachers, advocate for integrating fish
farming activities or lessons into all grade levels or courses.
Table 13: What teaching methods or approaches do you think would work best for integrating fish
farming into the curriculum?
27
Classroom lectures and discussions 12 24%
TOTAL 50 100%
effective teaching method. A majority of teachers (36%) favored practical demonstrations and
hands-on activities. This strong endorsement indicates that a substantial number of educators
recognizes the pedagogical benefits of experiential learning, where students actively engage in
fish farming practices to gain a deeper understanding and develop practical skills. Around 30%
of the teachers recognized the value of field trips to fish farms or aquaculture facilities. This
result suggests that a considerable proportion of educators sees the benefits of providing students
with real-world experiences to reinforce classroom learning and foster a deeper connection with
Table 14: What resources or materials would be necessary to support the integration of fish farming
into the curriculum?
28
Fish farming manuals or textbooks 13 26%
TOTAL 50 100%
A significant number of teachers (26%) indicated that fish farming manuals or textbooks would
be essential resources. This response suggests that teachers value having comprehensive and
structured learning materials that cover various aspects of fish farming, providing students with
foundational knowledge and reference materials. Around 20% of teachers recognized the
identified the need for laboratory equipment and fish farming tools. About 12% of teachers
expressed the desire to have guest speakers or experts in fish farming visit the classroom..
Around 6% of teachers advocated for having all the mentioned resources and materials. This
approach that combines various resources to create a well-rounded and engaging learning
Table 15: What challenges or barriers do you foresee in integrating fish farming into the
curriculum?
29
Lack of funding for necessary resources 18 36%
TOTAL 50 100%
Approximately 36% of the teachers identified lack of funding for necessary resources as a
significant barrier. This response highlights the importance of adequate financial support to
provide schools with the essential infrastructure, equipment, and materials needed for practical
fish farming education. Around 18% of the teachers expressed concerns about their own
knowledge or expertise in fish farming. Approximately 16% of the teachers identified the
availability of laboratory equipment and fish farming tools as a potential barrier. This suggests
that some schools may lack the necessary facilities to provide students with hands-on learning
experiences in fish farming. Around 10% of teachers expressed concerns about the limited time
within the curriculum to incorporate fish farming. Finally, 20% of teachers cited all the
mentioned challenges as potential barriers to integrating fish farming into the curriculum. This
indicates that these teachers recognize the complexity and multifaceted nature of the challenges
Table 16: Is there any specific training or professional development needs for teachers to
30
RESPONSE POPULATION PERCENTAGE
TOTAL 50 100%
From the table above, 20% of teachers expressed the need for training on fish farming techniques and
practices. This response underscores the importance of equipping educators with the necessary knowledge
and skills to teach practical aspects of fish farming effectively. Approximately 10% of the teachers
identified a need for training on curriculum integration and lesson planning. Around 16% of teachers
expressed a need for training on assessment and evaluation methods specific to fish farming. This
understanding and progress in fish farming-related topics. Approximately 16% of teachers identified the
need for access to professional networks or communities of practice. Lastly, around 40% of teachers
indicated that they require all the mentioned types of training and professional development. This
response underscores the teachers' recognition that a comprehensive approach, encompassing training on
fish farming techniques, curriculum integration, assessment methods, and access to professional
Table 17: Can you provide examples of successful initiatives or case studies where fish farming has
31
RESPONSE POPULATION PERCENTAGE
TOTAL 50 100%
The table above shows that 60% of the teachers were able to provide examples of successful
initiatives or case studies where fish farming has been integrated into the school curriculum. This
indicates that a majority of the teachers were aware of or had experience with successful
integration of fish farming education in schools. On the other hand, 40% of the teachers
responded "No," indicating that they may not have had specific examples of successful fish
farming integration in their educational context or were not aware of such initiatives. The
is promising, as it suggests that there are real-world examples to draw inspiration from when
Table 18: In your opinion, what are the long-term benefits and impacts of integrating fish farming into
32
Increased student understanding of sustainable 11 20%
agricultural practices
Improved food security and nutritional knowledge 18 36%
TOTAL 50 100%
The Table above shows that 20% of teachers believe that integrating fish farming into the
significant majority of the teachers (36%) identified improved food security and nutritional
knowledge as a key benefit of integrating fish farming. Around 20% of teachers cited enhanced
ecosystems as a significant long-term benefit. This finding indicates that educators understand
the role of responsible fish farming in protecting the delicate balance of aquatic environments.
Around 10% of teachers believe that all the mentioned benefits and impacts are attainable
through the integration of fish farming into the curriculum. This suggests that these teachers
recognize the multifaceted nature of fish farming education and its potential to positively
CHAPTER FIVE
33
5.1 SUMMARY
The research project "Promoting Fish Farming in Secondary Schools: Implications for
Sustainable Agriculture Practices and Student Education" aimed to investigate the potential
benefits and challenges of integrating fish farming into the secondary school curriculum. The
study involved surveys conducted among 50 students and 50 teachers to gauge their perception,
The results revealed that both students and teachers recognized the importance of promoting fish
farming for sustainable agriculture practices. Fish pond construction and management, fish
nutrition and feeding, and practical demonstrations were among the most favored concepts for
integration into the curriculum. However, some barriers, such as limited funding, teacher
The study highlights the significance of incorporating diverse teaching methods, including
practical demonstrations, field trips, and classroom discussions, to create an engaging and
comprehensive learning experience for students. Integrating fish farming into the curriculum can
security and nutritional knowledge, enhanced entrepreneurship and vocational skills, and
5.1 CONCLUSION
34
The research project concludes that integrating fish farming into the secondary school curriculum
holds considerable potential to promote sustainable agriculture practices and enhance student
education. The positive response from both students and teachers indicates a genuine interest in
learning about fish farming and its implications for food security and environmental
conservation.
By incorporating practical demonstrations, field trips to fish farms, and hands-on activities,
educators can effectively engage students and provide them with real-world experiences. Such
experiential learning opportunities can lead to a deeper understanding of fish farming concepts
Despite the promising outcomes, the research also identifies challenges, such as limited funding
and teacher expertise. To address these barriers, it is essential for educational policymakers to
5.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the findings of the research project, the following recommendations are proposed:
developers to integrate fish farming concepts into the secondary school curriculum.
Ensure that the content aligns with national educational standards and is age-appropriate
35
2. Teacher Training and Support: Provide teachers with training workshops and resources
professional development to keep educators up-to-date with the latest practices and
innovations in aquaculture.
3. Funding and Resources: Advocate for increased funding and investment in school
infrastructure, laboratory equipment, and fish farming tools. Securing adequate resources
4. Community Partnerships: Establish partnerships with local fish farms and aquaculture
facilities to facilitate field trips for students. These real-world experiences can enrich
entrepreneurship. This approach can provide students with a holistic understanding of the
of aquatic ecosystems in fish farming education. Educate students about the role of
36
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APPENDIX
QUETSIONNAIRE
“Fish farming in secondary schools: its implication to promote Agricultural practices by students
of Demonstration secondary school Dutsin-ma” The information you give will be used only for
this purpose and treated with confidentiality. I would be grateful if you provide answers of the
following questions.
40
e) None of the above
41
SECTION B: (TECHERS QUESTIONNAIRES)
11. Which of the following fish farming concepts do you believe could be effectively integrated
into the school curriculum?
a) Fish pond construction and management
b) Fish nutrition and feeding
c) Fish health and disease management
d) Fish breeding and genetics
e) All of the above
12. In your opinion, which grade levels or courses would be most suitable for incorporating fish
farming activities or lessons?
a) Primary school
b) Junior secondary school
c) Senior secondary school
d) Vocational or technical education programs
e) All of the above
13. What teaching methods or approaches do you think would work best for integrating fish
farming into the curriculum?
a) Classroom lectures and discussions
b) Practical demonstrations and hands-on activities
c) Field trips to fish farms or aquaculture facilities
d) Group projects or research assignments on fish farming
e) All of the above
14. What resources or materials would be necessary to support the integration of fish farming
into the curriculum?
a) Fish farming manuals or textbooks
b) Educational videos or multimedia resources
c) Laboratory equipment and fish farming tools
d) Guest speakers or experts in fish farming
e) All of the above
15. What challenges or barriers do you foresee to integrate fish farming into the curriculum?
a) Lack of funding for necessary resources
b) Limited teacher knowledge or expertise in fish farming
c) Limited time within the curriculum to incorporate fish farming
d) Limited access to suitable facilities for practical activities
e) All of the above
42
16. Is there any specific training or professional development needs for teachers to effectively
teach fish farming-related topics?
a) Training on fish farming techniques and practices
b) Training on curriculum integration and lesson planning
c) Training on assessment and evaluation methods for fish farming
d) Access to professional networks or communities of practice
e) All of the above
17. Can you provide examples of successful initiatives or case studies where fish farming has
been integrated into the school curriculum?
a) Yes, please provide specific examples.
b) No, I'm not aware of any specific examples.
18. In your opinion, what are the long-term benefits and impacts of integrating fish farming into
the school curriculum?
a) Increased student understanding of sustainable agricultural practices
b) Improved food security and nutritional knowledge
c) Enhanced entrepreneurship and vocational skills
d) Conservation and preservation of aquatic ecosystems
e) All of the above
43