Utilisation of Resources at Science and Mathematics Centres in Zimbabwe

This paper reports on a research carried out to obtain information on the usefulness of Science and Mathematics Centres (SMCs) in Zimbabwe. Interviews and questionnaires administered to the regional directorate andA-kvel teachers addressed the following aspects: accessibility of SMCs, use of materials at the SMCs, SMC workshops attendance, support to access the SMCs, networking and development of curriculum materials. 73.8% of the respondents indicated that the SMCs were easily accessible. Those in rural areas found the centres not to be accessible in terms of distance. The A-level teachers mainly come to the SMCs when invited for workshops. Only 47.1% of the respondents are using the resources at the centre, and it is mainly the photocopier which is used. There is no deliberate move to enhance teacher networking in the regions. It is recommended that the SMCs be made more accessible, teachers be afforded a chance for computer literacy courses, and SMC management committees should have aggressive advocacy campaigns so that intended users are aware of what is offered at the centres and the resources that are available.