FACTORS INFLUENCING PERFORMANCE OF LEARNERS IN SCIENCE SUBJECTS AT ORDINARY LEVEL IN WAKISO DISTRICT, UGANDA.

Abstract

The study assessed the factors influencing performance of learners in science subjects at ordinary level in Wakiso District, Uganda. The study was guided by three objectives namely to establish how Learner factors influence performance of learners in science subjects at ordinary level; to establish how teacher factor influence performance of learners in science subjects at ordinary level and to establish the role of School based factors in influencing performance of learners in science subjects at Ordinary Level. The study used a cross sectional survey research design applying both qualitative and quantitative approaches. From a population of 300 respondents 207 formed a sample. The questionnaires, interviews and document review list were used to support data collection. The response rate of 97% was obtained where key findings revealed a significant positive influence of the learner factors (.397**), teacher factors (.305**) and school based factors (.537**) on the performance of learners in science subjects at ordinary level. From the discussion held about learner factor it can be concluded that encouraging students, changing their attitude, creating a good reading culture and concentration would improve learners’ performance in science subjects. On teacher factors, rewarding teachers and availing them with essential training material would trigger academic excellence. On school based factors it can be concluded that employing qualified science teachers and closely monitor their teaching duties would improve teachers’ performance in science subjects. The study recommended for counseling and motivational speeches to learners, use alumni to liaise with former old boys and girls, organize school science book festivals and practical science fares, conduct training of trainers, bench mark, internal school SACCO, lobby for external sponsorship-partnership, annual fundraising and corporate dinners. The study recommends a future study on the same topic but involving other districts and schools, since this may provide another card for a more holistic picture of performance of learners in sciences at ordinary level in schools.