Investigation of the factors that contribute to poor performance in science among students in secondary schools in Tanzania: A case of secondary schools in Kawe Division,Kinondoni municipality

Available evidence indicates that despite previous efforts, performance in science subjects is still very poor among secondary school students. This study sought to investigate factors that contribute to poor performance in science subjects among students in secondary schools in Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional research design whereby a total of 98 students from five schools in Kawe division were involved. Data collection was achieved through the use of questionnaires and structured interviews. Microsoft office excel and SPSS were the tools used to analyses the data collected. The main findings of this study showed that among many other reasons the common reasons that contribute to poor performance are poor methodology in science education, negative attitude towards science subjects among students and lack of resources such as text books and well equipped laboratories. Teachers should regularly attend the in-service training in order to equip themselves with new and modern methodology of teaching science subjects. It is recommended that the government and private school owners must ensure that the schools are well equipped with necessary materials, teachers should use modern methods of teaching science subjects in order to motivate and sustain students interests in science subjects.

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

The Open University of Tanzania

Year dc:date.issued

2014

Author dc:creator

• King’aru, James Muchwe

• 658 Gerneral management

Language dc:language

en