A Senior Lecturer at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Distance Learning Institute (DLI), Dr. Comfort Adeniyi, has urged teachers to rise above the traditional role of academic assessors and embrace a more inspirational approach in engaging female students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.
The Mathematics specialist gave the charge on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the DLI Monthly Seminar Series which was held at the Institute’s Conference Room, Red Bricks Building, UNILAG.
Delivering her presentation titled: Impact of Peer Collaboration, Teacher Feedback, and STEM Career Exposure on Girls’ Attitude Towards Science and Mathematics in Lagos State, Nigeria, Dr. Adeniyi identified the under-representation of women in STEM as a global concern, with a particularly acute situation in Nigeria due to deep-rooted socio-cultural and institutional barriers. She charged educators to become facilitators of inspiration, cultivating learning environments that ignite curiosity and sustain girls’ interest in STEM subjects.
“A teacher is a mentor, whose obligations involves more than being an academic assessor. A teacher should give feedback, which is a critical component of formative assessment, encompassing guidance, suggestions, and evaluations to enhance the student understanding of the subject.”
Drawing from her research, Dr. Adeniyi explained that Peer Collaboration in learning positively influences girls’ attitudes toward STEM, suggesting that classroom practices should be more inclusive and supportive of interaction and teamwork.
Earlier in her opening remarks, the Director of the Institute, Professor Risikat Dauda commended Dr. Adeniyi for availing members of the Institute the knowledge gained from her research. She re-affirmed the Institute’s commitment to fostering inclusive and impactful learning experiences across all demographics, and charged other faculty members to be ready to share their research findings.
Mrs. Peace Kelvin, who served as moderator, coordinated the event’s flow and facilitated a robust 15-minute Q&A session after the presentation. During that session, participants explored the practical implications of Dr. Adeniyi’s insights.
The event wrapped up with a vote of thanks delivered by Deputy Director of M&C, Dr. Adenike Oladipo, and a closing prayer by Mr. B.B. Shittu.
The June edition of the DLI Seminar Series once again affirmed DLI’s dedication to critical discourse, capacity building, and thought leadership within and beyond the university community.
