Factors Affecting Students’ Academic Performance in Social Studies Subject - the Case of Selected Senior High Schools in Sangnarigu District and Tamale Metropolis of Northern Ghana

Abstract

Efforts to identify and address the factors that affect the academic performance of students is key to achieving the aim of education. The study therefore sought to identify factors that influence the academic performance of social studies students in selected Senior High Schools (SHSs) within the Tamale Metropolis and Sangnarigu Districts of Northern Region of Ghana. The study adopted the multiple case study approach involving selected schools and participants with varied backgrounds and experiences in Social Studies. Teacher-related factors that affect the academic performance of students include the teachers’ teaching styles and methods as well as teachers’ academic qualification. Parent-related factors include inadequate parental support such as parents’ inability to provide textbooks and supplementary reading materials. Student-related factors include students’ inactivity during lessons while school-related factors include inadequate teaching and learning materials in the schools.  The study therefore recommends, among others, the need for parents and teachers to collaborate in ensuring that students have the right attitude towards teaching and learning of social studies.