Causes of Low Achievement in Mathematics
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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.