Determinants of Performance in Mathematics among Girls in Public Primary Schools in Isinya Sub-County, Kajiado County Kenya

Abstract

Mathematics is very important in various fields covering a wide range of academic activities undertaken by pupils in primary schools. It forms a solid foundation for future academic success. The purpose of this study was to assess the determinants of performance in mathematics amongst girls. The study sought to determine the extent to which teacher factors, girl factors, and school factors influence girls' mathematics performance. The study was driven by the academic achievement theory and the dynamic theory of school variables. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methodologies and the target population consisted of 33 head teachers, 80 mathematics teachers, and 325 seventh-grade girls, totaling 438 respondents, from whom a sample of 208 was drawn by use of Yamane's Formula. Three head teachers and 19 mathematics teachers were chosen at random from each zone. However, 30 girls in class VII were randomly selected from each zone. The researcher sampled 12 head teachers, 88 mathematics teachers, and 120 girls in class VII using this procedure. Questionnaires and interview guides were used as data collection instruments. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically and presented in narrative form. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively using frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation. The study established that teacher related factors affect the performance of girls in mathematics subject, girls showed negative attitude towards mathematics, peer pressure is detrimental to girl’s math’s achievement. Most of the schools in Isinya Sub County have no conducive facilities to enhance performance of girls in mathematics. The study recommends that there is need to improvise measures that enhance teacher capacity for teaching efficiency. The government’ school management and other stake holders such as parents and advocacy organization needs to come up with multidimensional approach measures that work towards transforming girls identify and value.