A study of the factors responsible for poor performance in Chemistry among secondary school students in Maragua District
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Date
2012-02-08
Authors
Kamau, David Maina
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Abstract
This project is a study of the factors responsible for poor performance in Chemistry. The need for the study was given impetus by media reports of mass failure in sciences and mathematics in Kenya secondary schools.
The study had the following objectives:
1. To find out the parents career and its influence in achievement score.
2. To investigate the students preferred career.
3. To find out the availability of chemistry books.
4. To investigate the availability of laboratory apparatus and chemicals
5. To find out the frequency of the laboratory experiments
6. To find out the attitude of students towards chemistry to their teacher.
7. To investigate the teachers academic qualification.
The research was designed as a comparative causative survey. Purposive random sample of 183 students and 10 chemistry teachers was selected in five schools of Maragua districts Makuyu division.
Questionnaires were used to collect data for the study. An observation schedule to collect information on the status of facilities was used. Descriptive statistics (percentages, frequencies, and means) were used. Inferential statistics (chi square and ANOVA) were used to establish the relationships in the data. The data was analysed with use of SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) program.
The study revealed that, fathers' occupation influences achievements of the child. Some students were found to have negative attitude towards the subjects. Facilities are not adequate in some schools. Students do not have role models to motivate them right from home and to some extent to the school. The researcher recommended for provision of facilities in school., regular inspection and enhancement of guidance and counseling in schools.
Further study can be conducted on the relationship between home related factors and performance of the students, motivation and its effects on performance would be of great importance
Description
The QD 49.K4K3
Keywords
Chemistry--study and teaching--Kenya