Universal Journal of Educational Research Vol. 8(12A), pp. 7211 - 7217
DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2020.082502
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Investigation into Challenges Affecting Learner Academic Performance in a Grade 10 Economics Class


Habasisa Molise *
School of Education, Sol Plaatje University, 8301, Kimberly, South Africa

ABSTRACT

This paper investigated challenges affecting learners' academic performance in a Grade 10 economics class. Studies confirm that economics, as a subject, deals with real-life issues, and it needs to be taught such a way that learners can find connection between the content they learn in the class and prior-learning experiences. The study was qualitative, with 30 participants selected from one rural school in the Thabo Mofutsanyane education district. Focus group interviews were used to gather in-depth information regarding the challenges affecting learner academic performance in economics. The data were then analysed and various themes were identified responding to the research question. Finally, the study revealed the following findings: teachers and learners have to be motivated continuously; parents could assist in monitoring learners' work, and professional development workshops should be made available for teachers. The findings suggest that continuous professional development opportunities and support should be given to economics teachers to ensure quality teaching. The teaching and learning of economics should incorporate learners' real-life experiences in order to enhance their understanding on the content learnt in the class through the use of learner-centred strategies.

KEYWORDS
Academic Performance, Focus Group Interviews, Critical Emancipatory Research, Learner-centred Methods, Participatory Action Research, Teaching and Learning

Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Habasisa Molise , "Investigation into Challenges Affecting Learner Academic Performance in a Grade 10 Economics Class," Universal Journal of Educational Research, Vol. 8, No. 12A, pp. 7211 - 7217, 2020. DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2020.082502.

(b). APA Format:
Habasisa Molise (2020). Investigation into Challenges Affecting Learner Academic Performance in a Grade 10 Economics Class. Universal Journal of Educational Research, 8(12A), 7211 - 7217. DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2020.082502.