Factors Affecting Academic Performance of Middle School Children in Public and Private Sector Schools of South Punjab

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the factors which directly or indirectly affect academic performance of school going children of middle classes of government and private schools.

Methodology: Study design was cross sectional descriptive study. Students from class 7^th and 8^th of Moon Science Academy (private) and Government Abbasia Higher Secondary School Bahawalpur were recruited for this study. A total number of 200 students were included in the study. Sample size was taken as per availability of resources. Non probability consecutive type of sampling technique was used to calculate the sample size. Place of study was the two schools from which students were recruited. Study took place from February 2016 to June 2016.  A questionnaire was distributed among the students which consisted of two basic parts. In one part general bio data of students was noted while on the other part outcome variables such as socioeconomic status, parents’ education and their assistance in students’ homework was noted along with other variables like participation in extracurricular activities and overall academic performance of the students.  Data thus obtained was subjected to statistical analysis with the help of computer software SPSS version 23. Percentages and frequencies of different variables were calculated and analyzed. Academic performance was referred to as poor, fair or good. Academic performance was judged on the basis of attendance, weekly or monthly tests and annual exam results.

Results: In this study, overall 100% (n=200) students of (7^th and 8^th class) were included. 100% (n=100) from Government Abbasia Higher Secondary Model School and 100% (n=100) from Moon System of Education (private school). Association was found between academic performance and fathers’ education (p=0.000), mothers’ education (p=0.000), socio-economic status (p=0.000) and type of school (p=0.000), except parents assistant in homework (p=0.658) and extra-curricular activities (p=0.930).

Conclusion: This study concludes that parents’ education, financial status, and their assistance in homework were the factors directly affecting the academic performance of the school going children.

Keywords: Academic Performance, School, Children, Parents, Teachers