Browsing by Author "Odoi, Yona"

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    Poor performance among girl child in mathematics in primary schools in Iyolwa town council, Tororo district.
    (Busitema University, 2024) Odoi, Yona
    This study investigated the poor performance in mathematics among girl children in primary schools in Iyolwa Town Council, Tororo District. Guided by three research objectives, the study aimed to identify the causes of poor performance in mathematics among girls, establish appropriate teaching methods for mathematics in primary schools, and evaluate government strategies promoting mathematics education. Data was collected from four primary schools, including four head teachers, four mathematics teachers, and twenty learners from each school through simple random sampling, utilizing questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and documentary reviews. The findings revealed that the use of concrete manipulatives significantly enhanced students' conceptual understanding of mathematical concepts. A majority of respondents (90%) deemed the problem-solving method "very effective" for teaching mathematics. In addition, half of the respondents (50%) indicated that they "Always" used the discovery method in their classrooms, while 30% used it "Often." Despite this, a substantial portion (70%) of respondents disagreed that the government had implemented sufficient financial support programs to promote mathematics education. Conversely, all respondents (100%) agreed that government-led counseling and guidance programs had positively influenced girls' attitudes toward mathematics. The study concluded that the teaching methods employed during mathematics lessons were often ineffective, with many respondents’ expressing skepticism about the efficacy of concrete manipulatives and digital tools in enhancing understanding. These findings aligned with existing literature highlighting the crucial role of teaching methods and materials in developing mathematical competence. Recommendations included the adoption of diverse teaching strategies catering to various learning styles, particularly emphasizing problem solving and interactive methods. Furthermore, initiatives aimed at engaging parents in their children's education should be established, including workshops and informational sessions to help parents better support their daughters academically, especially in mathematics.