Factors affecting students’ achievement in mathematics in secondary schools in developing countries: A rapid systematic review

Abstract

Mathematics is seen by society as the foundation of scientific technological knowledge that is vital in social-economic development of a nation. In fact, studies suggest that mathematics as a subject affects all aspects of human life at different levels. This paper is a rapid systematic review of factors affecting students’ achievement in mathematics. We searched literature on student achievement in mathematics. We used ERIC database and supplemented with Google Scholar and random Google search. Twenty six articles met the final selection criteria and were reviewed. The teaching methods, teachers’ attitude, students’ attitude towards mathematics were noted as key factors in almost all articles reviewed. There seemed to be consistency too that parents can exert a positive influence on their children’s mathematical performance, classroom environment, students’ previous mathematics achievement and gender related factors. Student achievement at secondary level determines whether they will opt to or qualify to study statistics at university. From this review, it is imperative that these factors be addressed early in the students’ career so as to have more student enrollment for statistics at tertiary institutions.