AN ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CLASS SIZE AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The relationship between class size and academic performance has been a perplexing one for educators. Studies have found that the physical environment, class overcrowding, and teaching methods are all variables that affect students’ achievement (Molnar, et al., 2000). Other factors that affect student achievement are school population and class size (Gentry, 2000; and Swift, 2000).
The issue of poor academic performance of students in Nigeria has been of much concern to all and sundry. The problem is so much that it has led to the decline in standard of education. Since the academic success of students depends largely on the school environment, it is imperative to examine the impact variables of class size and school population on the academic performance of students in secondary school.
Large class size and over populated schools have direct impact of the quality of teaching and instruction delivery. Overcrowded classrooms have increased the possibilities for mass failure and make students to lose interest in school. This is because large class size do not allow individual student to get attention from teachers which invariably lead to low reading scores, frustration and poor academic performance.
In order to better understand the skill levels of students, it might be necessary to evaluate factors affecting their performance. These factors can include: school structure and organization, teacher quality, curriculum, and teaching philosophies (Driscoll, Halcoussis, & Svorny, 2003). The idea that school population and class size might affect student performance is consistent with the growing literature on the relationship between public sector institutional arrangements and outcomes (Moe, 1984). The purpose of this study is to further examine the relationship of class size, school population and student academic achievement
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The performance of secondary school students in NECO, WAEC and JAMB calls for proper investigation. Although, several scholars have proposed various factors responsible for the poor performance of students, few research have been dedicated to the correlation between class size, school population and academic achievement of students. This study therefore looks at how class size affect students’ academic performance in secondary schools.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The general purpose of this study is to find out the relationship between class size and student achievement using some selected secondary schools in Agege Local Government Area Of Lagos State as case study. The specific objectives are to:
- Examine the relationship between class size and academic performance of students
- Examine the relationship between school population and academic performance of students
- Discuss the effects of over-population on classroom management
- Analyse the impact of over-population on school resources and facilities
1.4 Research Questions
i. Is there any correlation between class size and academic performance of students?
ii. Is there any relationship between school population and academic performance of students?
iii. Is there any relationship between over population and classroom management?
iv. Is there any relationship between over population and school resources/ facilities?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Ho1 There is no significant relationship between class size and academic performance of students
Ho2 There is no significant relationship between school population and academic performance of students
Ho3 There is no significant relationship between over population and classroom management
Ho4 There is no significant relationship between over population and school resources/ facilities
1.6 Scope of the Study
This research work focuses on the relationship between class size and student achievement using some selected secondary schools in Agege Local Government Area Of Lagos State as case study. This research work covers all public secondary schools students in Agege Local Government Area Of Lagos State. However, four public secondary schools will be used as case study.
1.7 Significance of the Study
This study is important for several reasons.
First, the findings will help teachers to identify the reasons for the academic performance of students in large classes with high population and how they can address the problems;
Second, it will provide comprehensive information for educational planners, educators, and parents on how they can assist students to cope in large classes;
Third, this research work will lead to further in-depth study on the impact of class size and school population on the academic performance of students in Nigeria;
Lastly, it will serve as a contribution to knowledge in the subject area. In this regard, it will be useful for other researchers who might want to carry out research in related areas
1.8 Research Methodology
A descriptive research design will be use in carrying out this study. The sample for this study constitutes one hundred (100) respondents. For this research work, random sampling technique will be used. This study will be restricted to the categories of teachers and students the researcher considered essentially relevant to issues being investigated. Simple percentage statistical analysis will be used for the study.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Academic Achievement – Knowledge attained or skills developed in school subjects by test scores.
Secondary school (also “high school”) is a term used to describe an educational institution where the final stage of schooling, known as secondary education and usually compulsory up to a specified age, takes place. It follows elementary or primary education, and may be followed by university (tertiary) education.
Overpopulation: This is when the number of students in a particular class exceeds the standard of student-teacher ratio of 1:30.
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