Introduction

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this handbook is to provide useful information needed to guide new and old students of the Department of Biology in particular and the University in general. The information include among other things University, Faculty/Departmental admission requirements, course structure, course description, grading system, regulations governing the conduct of examinations, examination offences and penalties etc. designed to make their stay comfortable and rewarding.

In recognition that the student is the pivot of the University's primary objectives of teaching, manpower training and research, let it be borne in mind that these can be achieved only in a healthy atmosphere of peace and stability, predicted upon respect for rule of law, and maintenance of cordial relationship and interaction within the University environment.

Brief Historical Background

The Department of Biology started at the inception of the College of Education in January 1972 with the 3 - year Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) Programme. With the upgrading of the institution to degree awarding status in 1980, the Department began the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree programme in Biology on May 28, 1982, as the College matriculated the pioneer students under the affiliation of the University of Ibadan.   Since then to date the Department has been effectively managed by Heads (Appendix Ill). Through the effective and efficient teaching skills of the lecturers, the department has
produced 15 First Class students (Appendix 1 1 ) and three of whom were the best graduating students in their respective academic sessions: they were, Miss Rosemary Boate, 1999/2000; Miss Gloria Oroma Green, 2002/2003, Miss Victoria Adanna Adikwu, 2008/2009. The department has also produced to her credit some very good students who now serve the department as lecturers. Some of them are, Dr. Lebari Gboeloh, Mrs Martha Njoku; Mr. Kingsley Elele. Mr. Upadhi Friday and Mr. Ikechi Okere.

Philosophy

The Philosophy of the Department of Biology under the Biology
Education programme includes:

• To train professional Biology teachers and teacher trainers at the Bachelor's degree level; well equipped with the relevant knowledge, skills, methods and attitude to cultivate inquiring, knowing and rational mind for the conduct of good life and democracy Produce Biology teachers (scientists) for national development.
• Prepare teachers who will service studies in science and technology and technological development.
• Produce teachers who will provide knowledge and understanding of the complexity of the physical world. The forms and the conduct of life at the secondary level of education.

Aim

The Objectives include:

1. To produce Biology teachers with the practical intellectual and professional background adequate to enable them impart the knowledge to their students;
2. To produce Biology teachers who have sound mastery of biology problem solving skills that would enable them to also work in the industry;
3. To produce Biology teachers who can disseminate information in Biology education to the individual or the society at large;
4. To produce Biology teachers who can use new technologies and strategies that are relevant in teaching- Iearning processes to impart knowledge on students;  
5. To produce Biology teachers with the spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship;
6. To produce Biology teachers who are committed to the teaching profession;
7. To produce Biology teachers with knowledge, skills and attitudes which would enable them to contribute effectively to the growth and development of their communities in particular and the society in general;
8. To produce Biology teachers with proper leadership qualities that would enable them assume leadership positions successfully in future.
9. To produce Biology teachers who can pursue further studies either in Biology Education, Biology or any of the options in Education foundations.

Admission

Staff