Causes of Low Achievement in Mathematics

Abstract

This study focuses on the causes of low achievement in mathematics of students in Bhaktapur district. The general objective of this study was to find out the causes of low achievement of grade IX students. It is the case study, which is qualitative in nature. This study was conducted with the sample of three students of grade IX students of three different schools. The sample was chosen purposively according to the performance in mathematics. To collect the required data, direct interview with low achiever students, their respective parents, subject teachers and head teachers of the schools which were taken purposively. Classroom observation was done regularly for a week in each case school with mathematics teacher during the teaching learning activities being held. Such collected information’s were analyzed descriptively according to the constructivism theory. This study showed that, poor learning environment at home and school, poor economic status, traditional teaching style, negative learning attitude, not using the ICTs in teaching/learning mathematics, poor reinforcement to the students, paper-pencil evaluation process are the main causes of low achievement in mathematics, which is the conclusion of this study. Non-testing devices for evaluation, ICT based teaching- learning activities, well- equipped laboratory and library and regular refreshment training for teacher are the some recommendations for educational implication. Also, ICTs and its effects in learning mathematics, learner psychology towards mathematics and family's economy in the student's achievements are the recommendation for further study.