Project – The effects of absenteeism on student’s academic performance in junior secondary school

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Absenteeism, defined as chronic or habitual absence from school, has been a significant concern in educational research due to its potential impact on students’ academic performance. Numerous studies have highlighted the correlation between absenteeism and lower academic achievement, particularly in junior secondary school, a critical period for cognitive and social development. According to Balfanz and Byrnes (2012), students who miss more than 10% of school days are at a higher risk of falling behind academically, which can lead to long-term educational disadvantages.

One of the primary reasons absenteeism affects academic performance is the loss of instructional time. When students are absent, they miss out on essential lessons, discussions, and activities that are crucial for understanding the curriculum. Gottfried (2014) found that absenteeism in junior secondary school significantly reduces students’ ability to grasp complex concepts, leading to gaps in knowledge that are difficult to bridge. This loss of instructional time can result in lower grades and decreased motivation to engage in schoolwork.

Moreover, absenteeism can disrupt the continuity of learning. Regular attendance is necessary for maintaining a steady progression through the curriculum. When students are frequently absent, they may struggle to keep up with their peers, leading to a sense of frustration and disengagement. As noted by Kearney (2008), this disruption can create a cycle of absenteeism, where students who fall behind are more likely to continue missing school, further exacerbating their academic difficulties.

Social factors also play a significant role in the relationship between absenteeism and academic performance. Junior secondary school is a time when students develop critical social skills and relationships that support their learning. According to a study by Romero and Lee (2007), students who are frequently absent miss out on these social interactions, which can negatively impact their sense of belonging and engagement in school. This lack of social connection can lead to increased absenteeism and further academic decline.

Additionally, absenteeism can be influenced by external factors such as family environment, socioeconomic status, and health issues. Research by Chang and Romero (2008) indicates that students from low-income families are more likely to experience chronic absenteeism due to factors such as lack of access to healthcare, transportation issues, and unstable housing. These external factors can compound the negative effects of absenteeism on academic performance, making it a multifaceted issue that requires comprehensive interventions.

The study consistently shows that absenteeism has a detrimental effect on students’ academic performance in junior secondary school. The loss of instructional time, disruption of learning continuity, and lack of social engagement are key factors that contribute to this negative impact. Addressing absenteeism requires a holistic approach that considers the various underlying causes and implements strategies to support regular attendance. Future research should continue to explore effective interventions and policies to mitigate the effects of absenteeism and promote academic success for all students.

• Statement of the Problem

Absenteeism in junior secondary schools has emerged as a significant issue that adversely affects students’ academic performance. The problem is multifaceted, involving various factors such as socio-economic status, family background, health issues, and school environment. When students frequently miss school, they miss out on critical instructional time, which can lead to gaps in knowledge and understanding. These gaps can accumulate over time, making it increasingly difficult for students to catch up with their peers. Consequently, absenteeism can lead to lower grades, decreased engagement, and a higher likelihood of dropping out of school altogether.

The impact of absenteeism is not limited to the individual student but extends to the classroom environment and the school community as a whole. Teachers often have to spend additional time helping absent students catch up, which can detract from the time available for other students. This can create a cycle of disruption and disengagement that affects the entire class. Moreover, schools with high absenteeism rates may face challenges in meeting educational standards and performance metrics, which can affect funding and resources. Therefore, addressing absenteeism is crucial for the overall health of the educational system.

Research has shown that absenteeism is often linked to a variety of underlying issues, including mental health problems, bullying, and lack of parental involvement. For instance, students who experience anxiety or depression may find it difficult to attend school regularly. Similarly, students who are bullied may avoid school to escape their tormentors. Lack of parental involvement can also contribute to absenteeism, as parents may not be aware of or able to address the reasons why their children are missing school. Understanding these underlying issues is essential for developing effective interventions to reduce absenteeism.

Interventions to address absenteeism must be multifaceted and tailored to the specific needs of the student population. Strategies may include improving school climate, providing mental health support, and increasing parental engagement. Schools can also implement early warning systems to identify students at risk of chronic absenteeism and provide targeted support. Additionally, community partnerships can play a crucial role in addressing the broader socio-economic factors that contribute to absenteeism. By taking a comprehensive approach, schools can create an environment that supports regular attendance and academic success.

The long-term consequences of absenteeism can be severe, affecting not only academic performance but also future opportunities. Students who frequently miss school are less likely to graduate and more likely to experience unemployment and lower earnings in adulthood. They may also be at higher risk for involvement in criminal activities and other negative outcomes. Therefore, addressing absenteeism is not only an educational priority but also a social and economic imperative. By investing in strategies to reduce absenteeism, society can help ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Absenteeism in junior secondary schools is a complex problem with far-reaching implications for students, teachers, and the broader community. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes understanding the underlying causes, implementing targeted interventions, and fostering a supportive school environment. By doing so, schools can help improve academic performance, reduce dropout rates, and create a brighter future for all students.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the effects of absenteeism on student’s academic performance in junior secondary school. The specific objectives are:

1. To determine the relationship between student absenteeism and academic performance in junior secondary school.
2. To identify the factors contributing to student absenteeism in junior secondary school.
3. To assess the impact of absenteeism on different subjects and grades in junior secondary school.
4. To explore potential interventions to reduce absenteeism and improve academic performance in junior secondary school.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the relationship between student absenteeism and academic performance in junior secondary school?
2. What are the factors contributing to student absenteeism in junior secondary school?
3. How does absenteeism impact different subjects and grades in junior secondary school?
4. What potential interventions can be explored to reduce absenteeism and improve academic performance in junior secondary school?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Students absenteeism has no significant effect on their academic performance in junior secondary school.

H1: Students absenteeism has significant effect on their academic performance in junior secondary school.

1.6. Significance of the Study

Absenteeism in junior secondary schools is a critical issue that significantly impacts students’ academic performance. When students frequently miss school, they lose valuable instructional time, which can lead to gaps in their understanding of key concepts. This disruption in learning continuity can make it difficult for students to keep up with their peers, resulting in lower grades and diminished academic achievement. The significance of studying the effects of absenteeism lies in identifying the root causes and developing strategies to mitigate its impact, thereby improving educational outcomes for all students.

Moreover, absenteeism can affect not only the individual student but also the overall classroom environment. Teachers may need to spend additional time helping absent students catch up, which can detract from the time available for teaching new material to the entire class. This can create a ripple effect, where the progress of the whole class is slowed down, potentially leading to a decline in overall academic performance. Understanding the broader implications of absenteeism can help educators and policymakers create more effective interventions to support both students and teachers.

In addition to academic performance, absenteeism can have long-term consequences on students’ social and emotional development. Regular attendance is crucial for building strong relationships with peers and teachers, which are essential for a supportive learning environment. Students who are frequently absent may feel isolated or disconnected from their school community, which can negatively impact their motivation and engagement in learning. By examining the effects of absenteeism, schools can implement programs that foster a sense of belonging and encourage consistent attendance.

Furthermore, absenteeism is often linked to various socio-economic factors, such as family income, parental involvement, and access to healthcare. Students from low-income families may face challenges such as transportation issues, lack of access to nutritious meals, or the need to work part-time jobs, all of which can contribute to higher rates of absenteeism. By understanding these underlying factors, schools and communities can develop targeted support systems to address the specific needs of at-risk students, thereby reducing absenteeism and improving academic performance.

The study of absenteeism also has implications for educational policy and resource allocation. Data on absenteeism rates and their impact on academic performance can inform decisions on where to allocate funding and resources, such as hiring additional support staff, implementing attendance monitoring programs, or providing professional development for teachers on effective engagement strategies. Policymakers can use this information to create more equitable and effective educational systems that support all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Finally, addressing absenteeism is essential for preparing students for future success. Consistent attendance is a key factor in developing important life skills such as responsibility, time management, and perseverance. These skills are not only crucial for academic success but also for success in higher education and the workforce. By studying the effects of absenteeism and implementing strategies to reduce it, schools can help students develop the habits and skills they need to thrive in their future endeavors.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines the effects of absenteeism on student’s academic performance in junior secondary school. The study is limited to selected Junior secondary schools in Ikorodu LGA, Lagos.

 1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

Effects: Effects refer to the changes or outcomes that result from a particular action or condition. In the context of absenteeism, effects would be the consequences or impacts that missing school has on various aspects of a student’s life, particularly their academic performance.

Absenteeism: Absenteeism is the habitual or frequent absence from school or work. In the context of education, it refers to students who regularly miss school without valid reasons, which can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including poor academic performance and social disengagement.

Student: A student is an individual who is enrolled in an educational institution for the purpose of learning. In this context, a student refers to a young person attending junior secondary school, typically between the ages of 12 and 15, who is engaged in academic and extracurricular activities.

Academic Performance: Academic performance is a measure of a student’s achievement in their educational pursuits. It is often evaluated through grades, test scores, and other assessments that reflect a student’s understanding and mastery of the curriculum. High academic performance indicates a strong grasp of the material, while low performance may suggest difficulties in learning or other underlying issues.

Junior Secondary School: Junior secondary school is an educational stage that follows primary school and precedes senior secondary school. It typically includes grades 7 through 9 and serves students who are usually between the ages of 12 and 15. This stage is crucial for laying the foundation for higher education and future career paths, as it covers essential subjects and skills.

Project – The effects of absenteeism on student’s academic performance in junior secondary school