Participation of Dalit Students in Mathematics Learning

Abstract

This study related to participation in mathematics of Dalits students in secondary school in Rukum district. The objectives of this study were to identify the participation of Dalit student's in mathematics learning, to find the major factors affecting the participation of Dalit students in mathematics learning. The design of this study was qualitative with case study approach. I selected the Dalit students of secondary level in Prabhat Higher Secondary School, Dopai Chhibang of Rukum district. I selected five Dalit students, respective their parents, one mathematics teacher and head teacher chosen for the study as sample and I have used purposive sampling. Class observation and interview were the main tools for the data collection process. I visited the sample school and concerning the mathematics teacher, Dalit students and respective parents and head teacher. I found that the participation of Dalit students in mathematics learning is comparatively less than other students. Similarly, the factor affecting the participation of Dalit students in mathematics learning are poor economic condition of the family, negative social belief and tradition, household work load, cost of education, lack of motivation, psychological effect, distance of the school were the problems of participating the Dalit students in mathematics class. To improve the learning capacity of Dalit students in mathematics, they should be motivated to be regular in school, necessary materials should be provided to them from the school, there should be discussion between Dalit students, parents and mathematics teacher about their student, there should be discount in tuition classes and hostel fee, there should be at least on Dalit teacher in each school. The economic help should be provided to them and the people who discriminate them should be discouraged.