USE OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS IN SKILLS ACQUISITION AMONG LECTURERS OF MIDWIFERY INSTITUTIONS IN FAKO DIVISION, SOUTH WEST REGION, CAMEROON

Abstract

Background: Instructional materials have been observed as a powerful tool used by lecturers to bring about effective teaching and learning. The importance of quality and adequate instructional materials in the teaching-learning process cannot be under estimated. Objectives: This study aimed at investigating the availability and use of instructional materials in imparting skills, and barriers faced by lecturers of midwifery institutions in Fako Division, Cameroon. Methods: The study employed an institution based cross-sectional design. Purposive and convenient sampling techniques were used to select the study sites and enroll participants to the study. This study was carried out in Biaka University Institute of Buea, Redemption Higher Institute of Biomedical and Management Sciences, Maflekumen Higher Institute of Health Sciences and the University of Buea all found in Fako Division, South West Region of Cameroon. The study participants were made up of all teachers in the selected institutions in Fako Division who teach Midwifery Courses. Lecturers who met the inclusion criteria and gave their consent to participate in the study were included. Data was collected using a checklist and a four point Likert scale pretested questionnaire. Data was analysed using the Epi info version 7.0. Results: A total of 78 lecturers of midwifery courses participated in the study. Anatomical models (Bony Pelvis) necessary for the training of midwives were not adequately available [2 (50%)], while 5 equipment necessary for the training of midwives were not available [00(00%)] in the 4 schools. Sixty-six (84.6%) teachers improvised some instructional materials during the teaching and learning process and most [75(96.1%)] of them agreed that instructional materials are vehicles through which teachers communicate information. There was a statistically significant difference (p<0.005) between the perceived use of instructional materials and the imparting of skills on midwifery students. The lack of a supervisory body [70(89.8%)] was a major challenge to the use of instructional materials. Conclusion: Overall, instructional materials necessary for the training of midwives were not available. It was perceived that teachers used the instructional materials available at their disposal, although students were not giving the opportunity to practice after lectures. This study revealed that teachers faced barriers in the use of instructional materials.