The impact of motivation on learning and achievement in Mathematics among Tanzania's secondary schools students.
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Date
2011
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
The influence of motivation on students on learning and academic achievement in Mathematics among secondary students in Tanzania has not received due attention over the years. Thus, this study investigated the influence of motivation on students' learning and academic achievement in mathematics among secondary students in Tanzania. Data were collected from respondents in 10 schools. The study sample comprised of 164 respondents. They included heads of schools, heads of Mathematics departments, Mathematics teachers, non-mathematics teachers and students. Data collection methods included interviews, documentary review and questionnaires. All the data were coded manually. Qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. The findings reveal that the low morale of teachers due to low salaries and late payments affected students' academic performance. This research has also confirmed that the inadequacy of facilities such as study rooms impacted negatively the students' academic performance. Inadequate administrative support due to lack of administrative staff led to demotivation. This research also confirmed that when opportunities for achievement existed, staff motivation was boosted. Generally, the motivating factors were those that tended to boost recognition, appreciation and self-actualisation. Demotivating factors, on the other hands, included inadequate management policy and style and administration. The findings have been discussed in the context of some dominant theories on motivation. The study established that the opportunities for advancement and promotion for teachers were few. In addition, lack of committed teachers, availability of teaching and learning materials, good leadership, attractive and conducive environment all affected students' leading and academic performance. The study thus recommends that education stakeholders, government included, should co-operate to improve the living and working environment of secondary school teachers and students, Remunerations and other privileges that teachers and students are entitled to should be timely provided and should commensurate with this cost of living.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library, Class mark (THS EAF QA43.T34S26)
Keywords
High school students, Academic achievement, Mathematics, Teachers, Motivation, Korogwe district, Tanzania
Citation
Sangwa, B. P. (2011). The impact of motivation on learning and achievement in Mathematics among Tanzania's secondary schools students. Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam.