A Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Public Administration (MPA) of Mzumbe University
The research on investigation of the deterioration of Ordinary Level Academic performance in Public Secondary Schools was conducted at Rombo District Council. The study includes ten out of thirty four Public secondary schools. The selected schools were Makalema, Mema, Keni, Makiidi, Shimbi, Mkuu Day, Mashati, Kirachi, Maki, and Olele. The selection of the schools was done randomly considering period of existence and location. A sample of 270 respondents was chosen to obtain data for the study. The sample of the study consisted of heads of schools, academic masters/mistress, teachers and form four students in the selected schools. Likewise simple random sampling used to select the sample size. Both primary and secondary data were collected. Primary data collected through questionnaire and interview, while secondary data collected through documentary review. The overall objective of the study was to investigate the deterioration of Ordinary Level Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools. The framework chosen to guide the research was Case Study dessign because the research is comparative and descriptive study which needs in depth investigation of variables.
The study found out that teachers’ experience, shortage of teachers especially in science and mathematics subjects, medium of instruction in learning process, coverage of syllabus, preparation of lessons, students attendance, students participation in learning process, parents or guardians participation on academic affairs, students assessment, teachers assistance to slow learners, teaching loads, feedback, and extracurricular activities were among the factors lead to deterioration of Ordinary Level Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools.
The study has made number a of recommendations including Government resolutions on training more teachers on science and mathematics subjects, building of hostels to the public secondary schools, and enrollment of students by considering distance from their residence to school. It is also recommended that parents should be aware on their students’ continuous assessment and improve cooperation with teachers about their students. Also heads of school should insist both teachers and students to use English language in learning process since practice make perfect.