Problems Faced by Teachers and Students in Teaching Learning Mathematics in English Medium

Abstract

This is a qualitative study based on ethnography research design entitled "Problems Faced by Teachers and Students in Teaching Learning Mathematics in English Medium" conducted in Rupandehi district. The objective of this study were to analyze the perception of the teacher and students on the role of English language in teaching learning mathematics and to explore the kind of problem in teaching learning mathematics in English language. To achieve the accurate information 4 students and 2 teachers were selected purposively as research population. For collecting the data an interview schedule and observation tool were used. Interview and observation conducted on the basis of pre developed questionnaire and observation form respectively. The collected data translated in English, created theme, categorized on the basis of objectives and finally interpreted with related theory. Based on the interpretation and analysis of the data, it is found that both teacher and students agreed and realized that the English language hindered in teaching learning mathematics. Students having weak English competency struggled on conceptualizing, comprehending, memorizing, presentation and understanding the mathematical terms, definition and concepts meaningfully. There was lack of proper communication and interaction between teacher and students who came from Nepali background. Nepali's background students required more explanation and Nepali translation for lingual problem and mathematical terms and content. Finally it concluded that English medium of instruction is one of the major reason for less understanding, conceptualizing, memorizing and comprehending. And it is also the major cause for less achievement and promoting mathematical anxiety.