Volume 2 - Issue 1, January - February 2026

The impact of problem-based learning with simulation (PBLWS) on secondary school students' achievement in Computer Studies in Imo State, Nigeria was examined. Guided by two research questions and three hypotheses tested at a 0.05 significance level, the quasi-experimental design was employed. The population included 5,192 senior secondary school two (SS2) Computer Studies students, with a sample of 94 selected via purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected using the Computer studies Achievement Test (CSAT) which was validated by three experts and with reliability coefficient of 0.98 determined using Kuder-Richardson Formula 20. The experimental group was taught using PBLWS, while the control group received lecture-based instruction. Results from pretest and posttest analyses (using mean, standard deviation, and ANCOVA) showed that PBLWS significantly improved students' achievement compared to the lecture method. Gender had no notable influence on students’ achievement. It was concluded that PBLWS is more effective than the lecture method in enhancing students' achievement as it actively engages them in technology-driven problem-solving, aligning with broader research that emphasizes interactive, studentcentered learning for developing 21st-century skills. The study recommends among others that, teachers of Computer studies should be trained and encouraged to implement Problem-Based Learning with Simulation (PBLWS) as a core instructional strategy to enhance students’ academic achievement and engagement in Computer studies learning.

OKIGBO, Ebele Chinelo, IHEJIMBA, Ifeoma Chizoba,"Effect Of Problem-Based Learning with Simulation on Secondary School Students’ Achievement in Computer Studies in IMO State" International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development, V2(1): Page(501-509) Jan-Feb 2026. ISSN: 3107-6513. www.ijamred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.