Exploring learning difficulties in school level Geometry

Abstract

Most of the students regard mathematics as a difficult and dislike subject in school education. However, different studies showed that it could be made easier if we can find the cause of difficulties in learning mathematics. So, this study intended to determine the causes of difficulties in learning Geometry and to minimize the difficulties in learning geometry at secondary level. This study based on mixed method design. The researcher took interview and questionnaire with teachers and students. I observed the classroom for twenty days class. I collected the data and analyzed the obtained data with the help of conceptual understanding. Observation and achievement test among 200 students were conducted. Participants of this study were selected by simple random sampling method. Responses obtained from class observation and questionnaires were categorized based on Likart scale Mean Weightage score was collected to analyze the data obtained from observation and questionnaire. Percentage score was collected to analyze the data obtained from achievement test. In addition to that answer sheets were analyzed to identify the difficulties area in geometry. The data obtained from interview were analyzed descriptively. Finally it is concluded that the students feel difficulties in learning geometry because of school environment, home environment, lack of pre- knowledge, motivation and interest, learning activities teaching methods and technique. If the school provides sufficient teaching materials about geometry, extra classes for weak students, teacher uses appropriate teaching methods and parents create good environment for practice then the difficulties in learning geometry would be minimize.