PERCEPTION OF TEACHERS AND STUDENTS ON FACTORS AFFECTING STUDENTS’ INTEREST IN MATHEMATICS IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN GWOZA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Abstract
This study was conducted to ascertain the perceptions of mathematics teachers and students
on different factors affecting and enhancing students’ interest in mathematics in public senior
secondary schools in Gwoza local government area, Borno State. A descriptive survey design
was adopted. Four research questions were answered in the study. The total population for the
study was 3,544, and 346 were sampled which consisted of 22 mathematics teachers and 324
SSII students from eight schools. The instrument used for collection of data consisted of a 20-
item self-developed questionnaire titled "Perception of Teachers and Students Questionnaire
(PTSQ)". The instrument was validated by three experts, and a reliability coefficient of 0.84
was obtained after a pilot test of the instrument using the split-half and Spearman-Brown
Prophecy Formula methods. The findings revealed that poor mathematics background, anxiety
and phobias, and unqualified teachers are among the factors affecting students’ interest in
mathematics. Effective use of various teaching methods and strategies, instructional materials,
and proper career guidance are among the ways of enhancing students’ interest in
mathematics. It was then recommended that the government train the existing teachers and
provide adequate teaching materials in schools.