Relationship between Age and Students’ Achievement in Mathematics in Senior Secondary Schools in Delta Central Senatorial District of Nigeria

P. O. E. Efeludu, P. A. U. Ossai

Abstract


This research delved into the association between students' age and their performance in mathematics within senior secondary schools in Delta State, Nigeria. The study aimed to address a single research question and test a null hypothesis. Employing a correlation research design, a sample comprising 392 students from 28 government-owned secondary schools, all in senior secondary 2 (SS2), was meticulously selected. The sampling process involved both multi-stage and simple random techniques. The study employed a Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT) as the primary assessment tool. The research question was effectively answered utilizing the Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, while the null hypothesis underwent scrutiny through the application of Simple Linear Regression at a significance level of 0.05. The study findings demonstrated a noteworthy and statistically significant correlation between age and students' academic accomplishments in mathematics. Consequently, it can be inferred that age plays a discernible role in influencing students' academic achievements in the domain of mathematics. In light of the outcomes, the study concludes that age indeed exerts an impact on students' academic achievements in mathematics. As a recommendation, the study suggests that, except in instances of exceptional aptitude such as giftedness, adhering to and enforcing policies regarding age limits in educational contexts is advisable. This ensures that age-related factors are duly considered and accounted for in efforts to optimize students' mathematical academic performance.


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References


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