TEACHER-BASED FACTORS AS CHALLENGES IN THE TEACHING OF MATHEMATICS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Abstract

This study examined teacher-based factors as challenges in the teaching of Mathematics in Secondary Schools in Edo State. Four research questions were formulated to guide the study. The population comprised of fifty-four (54) Mathematics teachers in the fifteen public secondary schools in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State which was used for the study. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. A purposive sampling technique was utilized which involved the use of all the population as sample. A structured questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection, which comprise of four sub-headings; teaching methods (9 items), mathematics teachers’ attitude toward teaching (12 items), teachers motivation (10 items) and teachers workload (5 items). Data collected was analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The decision was based on any value less than 0.3 (< 0.3) was indicated as no challenge, while any value equal to or greater than 0.3 ( = , > 0.3) was indicated as a challenge. Results revealed items considered as challenges based on teaching method, teacher’s attitude, teacher’s motivation and workload respectively. Solutions provided included; more mathematics teachers should be employed in order to reduce workload, better pay and incentives should be given to Mathematics teachers, conducive environment should be provided for the teaching of mathematics, training and workshops should be organized regularly for mathematics teachers. The study recommended that innovative teaching methods should be used, like problem-solving, laboratory, discussion and project methods amongst others as lecture method was seen as a challenge. Mathematics teachers should develop positive attitude despite challenges to encourage students learn Mathematics, better remuneration packages can motivate Mathematics teachers to teach and recruitment of more qualified Mathematics teachers can reduce the stress of workload for teachers.