Investigating secondary school learners’ academic achievement in physics in Uganda

Year 2024, Volume: 6 Issue: 1, 18 - 42, 29.02.2024

Lugolole Robert , Ntongo Dorothy Marjorie S K Batiibwe Sentongo John Israel Kibirige

https://doi.org/10.47806/ijesacademic.1371312

Abstract

This study examined secondary school learners' academic achievement in physics in the Wakiso district of Uganda. A cross-sectional correlational design was used with 217 participants. This comprised 121 male and 96 female learners from two government-aided secondary schools in Kira Municipality, Wakiso district. Data were collected using a Self-Administered Questionnaire (SAQ) and analysed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and mean scores. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Pearson's linear correlation coefficient were applied for inferential statistics. The results show a positive relationship between learners' aptitude, learning environment, and academic achievement, while a negative relationship was between teachers' instruction and academic achievement in physics. These results have far-reaching implications for improving academic achievements in physics. The study recommended investing in a more friendly learning environment by upskilling in-service teachers through professional development programs to enhance their pedagogy and conduct parent meetings to sensitise them to create a conducive home learning environment.

Keywords

Academic achievement, learning environment, physics, aptitude

Ethical Statement

The researchers obtained a research authorization letter from the Dean School of Education, Makerere University. Later on, they sought permission from the Education Office in Fort Portal city and from the respective secondary school head teachers whose schools were involved in the study. In addition, the researchers did self-introduction and obtained consent from all the study participants having provided them with precise information about the purpose and procedures of the study and processes of data collection. The participants were further informed of the potential benefits and risks, and were assured of confidentiality of the information given and not to disclose their identities anywhere.

Supporting Institution

Makerere university

Project Number

No available

Thanks

We thank the participants of the study. We also thank the editor and reviewers of this paper in advance. Thanks again

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