Project – Competency level of secondary school teachers and its influence on students’ performance in mathematics

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The competency level of secondary school teachers plays a significant role in shaping the academic performance of students, particularly in mathematics. In Nigeria, this issue has been a subject of concern and has attracted the attention of researchers and policymakers alike. A study by Akinsolu (2010) found a significant relationship between teacher competency and student performance in mathematics. The study, which involved a sample of secondary schools in Nigeria, concluded that teachers’ knowledge of the subject matter, pedagogical skills, and attitude towards teaching significantly influenced students’ performance in mathematics.

Further, a study by Ogunyemi (2013) also emphasized the importance of teacher competency in improving students’ performance in mathematics. The study found that teachers who had a strong understanding of mathematical concepts and effective teaching strategies were more likely to produce students with high performance in mathematics. The study also highlighted the need for continuous professional development for teachers to enhance their competency levels.

However, the competency level of teachers is not the only factor that influences students’ performance in mathematics. Other factors such as the learning environment, availability of learning resources, and students’ attitudes towards mathematics also play a significant role. A study by Omoogun, Akinbote, and Ayodele (2011) found that students’ performance in mathematics improved significantly when they learned in a conducive environment with adequate learning resources.

Despite the importance of teacher competency, there is a shortage of competent mathematics teachers in many secondary schools in Nigeria. A study by Omoogun, Akinbote, and Ayodele (2011) found that many mathematics teachers in Nigerian secondary schools lacked the necessary qualifications and training to teach the subject effectively. This shortage of competent teachers is a major challenge that needs to be addressed to improve students’ performance in mathematics.

To address this challenge, several strategies have been proposed. These include improving teacher training programs, providing continuous professional development for teachers, and improving the recruitment and retention of competent mathematics teachers. A study by Ogunyemi (2013) suggested that improving the quality of teacher training programs could significantly enhance the competency level of mathematics teachers and consequently improve students’ performance.

The competency level of secondary school teachers significantly influences students’ performance in mathematics in Nigeria. However, there is a need for more research to understand the specific aspects of teacher competency that have the greatest impact on students’ performance. This will help in the development of targeted interventions to improve teacher competency and ultimately improve students’ performance in mathematics.

• Statement of the Problem

The problem of the competency level of secondary school teachers and its influence on students’ performance in mathematics in Nigeria is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. According to Akinsolu (2010), the competency of teachers is a critical factor that affects the academic performance of students. The author further asserts that the quality of education in any country lies in the quality of teachers, and Nigeria is no exception.

The competency of teachers in Nigeria, particularly in the subject of mathematics, has been a subject of concern for many years. A study by Ogunyemi (2013) revealed that many secondary school teachers in Nigeria lack the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach mathematics. This lack of competency has been linked to poor performance among students in mathematics.

The issue is further compounded by the fact that many teachers in Nigeria do not undergo regular training and professional development to enhance their teaching skills. According to a report by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO, 2016), many teachers in Nigeria do not participate in continuous professional development programs, which hampers their ability to effectively teach subjects like mathematics.

The lack of competency among secondary school teachers in Nigeria has significant implications for the country’s education system. According to the World Bank (2018), poor performance in mathematics among secondary school students in Nigeria is a major barrier to the country’s economic development. The report further states that improving the competency of teachers is key to improving students’ performance in mathematics.

The problem is further exacerbated by the fact that many secondary schools in Nigeria lack the necessary resources to enhance the competency of their teachers. According to a study by Okebukola (2015), many secondary schools in Nigeria do not have access to adequate teaching materials and resources, which hampers the ability of teachers to effectively teach mathematics.

In conclusion, the competency level of secondary school teachers and its influence on students’ performance in mathematics in Nigeria is a significant problem that needs to be addressed. The lack of competent teachers, coupled with the lack of resources and training opportunities, is a major barrier to improving students’ performance in mathematics. Therefore, there is a need for more research and interventions to address this issue.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine Competency level of secondary school teachers and its influence on students’ performance in mathematics in Agbani Education Zone. The specific objectives of the study are:

1. To examine the competency level of secondary school teachers in teaching mathematics in Nigeria.
2. To investigate the influence of teachers’ competency on students’ performance in mathematics.
3. To identify the specific areas of mathematics teaching where teachers’ competency may be lacking.
4. To assess the impact of improved teacher competency on students’ performance in mathematics.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the competency level of secondary school teachers in teaching mathematics in Nigeria?
2. How does the competency of teachers influence students’ performance in mathematics?
3. What are the specific areas of mathematics teaching where teachers’ competency may be lacking?
4. What is the potential impact of improved teacher competency on students’ performance in mathematics?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Competency level of secondary school teachers will not affect the teaching of mathematics in the classroom.

H₁: Competency level of secondary school teachers will affect the teaching of mathematics in the classroom.

• Significance of the Study

The significance of studying the competency level of secondary school teachers and its influence on students’ performance in mathematics in the Agbani Education Zone is multi-faceted. Firstly, it provides an understanding of the current state of mathematics education in the region. This study can reveal whether teachers are adequately equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach mathematics, a subject that is often considered challenging by many students.

Secondly, the study can help identify any gaps in the teachers’ competency levels. If the study reveals that teachers lack certain skills or knowledge, interventions can be designed to address these gaps. This could involve additional training for teachers, changes in the curriculum, or the introduction of new teaching methods. By improving the competency level of teachers, we can potentially improve the quality of mathematics education in the Agbani Education Zone.

Thirdly, the study can shed light on the relationship between teacher competency and student performance. If a strong correlation is found, it would underscore the importance of investing in teacher development as a means to improve student outcomes. This could influence policy decisions at the local, regional, or even national level, leading to a greater emphasis on teacher training and development.

Fourthly, the study can serve as a benchmark for other regions. If the Agbani Education Zone is found to have high teacher competency levels and strong student performance, it could serve as a model for other regions. Conversely, if the region is found to be lagging, it could learn from the practices of other regions that have higher competency levels and student performance.

Fifthly, the study can contribute to the broader body of research on education and teacher competency. It can add to our understanding of the factors that influence student performance, and the role that teachers play in this. This could have implications for education research and practice beyond the Agbani Education Zone.

Lastly, the study can have a direct impact on the students themselves. If improvements are made to the quality of mathematics education as a result of the study, this could lead to better learning outcomes for students. This could, in turn, open up more opportunities for them in terms of further education and career prospects. In conclusion, the significance of this study is far-reaching, with potential impacts at the individual, regional, and national levels.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines the Competency level of secondary school teachers and its influence on students’ performance in mathematics in Agbani Education Zone, Enugu State. The study is limited to Agbani Education Zone, Enugu State.

• Operational Definition of Terms

1. Competency Level: This refers to the ability or skill level of an individual in a particular area. In the context of your study, it refers to the proficiency or expertise of secondary school teachers in teaching, specifically in the subject of mathematics.
2. Secondary School: This is the stage of education following primary school and preceding tertiary education. It generally includes grades 7 through 12, although this can vary slightly by country. In this context, it refers to the schools where the teachers under study are teaching and where the students are learning.
3. Teachers: These are individuals who help students acquire knowledge, competences or values. In this study, the term specifically refers to those teaching mathematics in secondary schools.
4. Influence: This refers to the capacity to have an effect on someone’s character, development, or behavior. In this context, it refers to the impact that the competency level of teachers can have on their students’ performance in mathematics.
5. Students: These are individuals who are engaged in learning, typically within a school. In this context, it refers to those learning mathematics in secondary schools.
6. Performance: This refers to the action or process of carrying out or accomplishing a task. In the context of your study, it refers to how well students are able to understand and apply mathematical concepts, as measured by their grades or scores on assessments.
7. Mathematics: This is a field of study that involves the properties and relationships of numbers, quantities, shapes, and patterns. In this study, it refers to the subject that the teachers are teaching and the students are learning. 

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Project – Competency level of secondary school teachers and its influence on students’ performance in mathematics