Factors contributing to under achievement of Zambia female students in O-level Physics examinations: a case of selected high schools in Central Province
Date
2012-11-01
Authors
Maguswi, Buumba Victoria
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Abstract
This study is aimed at investigating factors inhibiting good performance in female learners at O-Level Physics examinations. The study also looked at views held by school administrators on the high failure rate and measures they would put in place to improve performance. The study included 10 Head teachers, 10 Heads of Science Departments and 40 teachers of Physics from ten selected high schools in Central Province. Only schools which offer O-Level Physics were considered and these included Caritas, Kalonga, Highridge, Kabwe, Stephen Luwisha, Bwacha, Jasmine, St. Paul’s, Mumbwa and Mpunde high schools.Each year, the Ministry of Education announces the O-Level National examinations results in all subjects and it has been observed that highest failure rates are in Physics.
It is hoped that this study would provide vital information for policy markers, school administrators and teachers of physics on how they would administer the physics course and the final examinations. It is also hoped that it would lay a background for any researcher wishing to investigate further.
Some of the findings for poor performance in Physics were;Inadequate funding, low teacher morale, heavy teaching loads, lack of qualified teaching staff, lack of text books, laboratory equipment and apparatus.
Lack of support from school managers, lack of knowledge in e-learning and lack of parental guidance amongst others.
Schools visited attempted to improve performance by the following measures.
In house workshops for teachers of physics were funded by the school administration.
Remedial work was given to learners.
Organize quiz competition in physics.
Awarding the most improving and deserving learner in physics.Recruit well qualified Physics teachers.Sponsor fully female learners.The recommendations of the study included the view that teachers of science be paid salaries more than teachers other of subjects; there should be provision of equipment and apparatus needed for physics lessons and examinations; administrators should fund the Continuous Professional Developments (C.P.Ds) that would equip teachers both with in content and skill. Both the teachers and learners must be highly motivated by encouraging learners to join science clubs and JETS while the teacher and the learners should under several study tours to enhance what is being covered in class.
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Keywords
Achievement tests(physics)--Zambia , Academic achievement(females)