Influence of E-Learning on Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Basic Secondary Schools in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State

Influence of E-Learning on Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Basic Secondary Schools in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State

ASTRACT

This study examined the influence of e-learning on upper basic education students’ academic performance in mathematics in Oshimili South Local Government area of Delta State. Four research questions guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised 3,319 upper basic education students in 13 public secondary schools in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State.  The sample of the study comprised 210 male and female upper basic education students selected through simple random sampling technique to represent the entire population. The instrument used for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled “Influence of E-learning on Upper Basic Education Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State. A draft copy of the questionnaire was validated by a lecturer in the Department of Educational Psychology, Federal College of Education (Technical) Asaba. The researcher administered the 210 copies of the questionnaire to junior secondary school students in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State with the help of 2 trained research assistants and 203 copies, representing 96.7% were retrieved which facilitated analysis. Data collected was analyzed using mean and standard deviation statistics. Findings of the study revealed that there are e-learning facilities used in teaching mathematics in Junior Secondary Schools; e-learning has influences students’ study habit towards learning Mathematics in Junior Secondary Schools positively and e-learning positively influence students’ participation in learning Mathematics in junior secondary school in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State. It was recommended among others that Delta state government should ensure the provision of adequate e-learning facilities to enhance students’ academic performance in Mathematics at the upper basic education level.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background to the Study

Education is the hallmark of technological advancement, innovation and even development. That is why the methods and strategies used in passing knowledge is very important. Instructional delivery has now taken to another level due to the advent of information and communication technology. The emergence of information and communication technologies (ICTs) and the ubiquitous connectivity of internet and networks improve man’s ingenuity and opportunities given that societies consciously depend on real-time information to be proactive and to discount the effects of environmental changes which brought about E-learning in the field of mathematics.

Mathematics is the study of relations among quantities, magnitudes, properties and of logical operations by which unknown quantities, magnitudes, and properties may be deduced (Eze, 2015). It is a universal language written with symbols and shapes and involves information   processing  (editing, analyzing, interpreting and sharing), producing, predicting and solving problems (Mathematical Education Board, 2016). In other words, it is the science of number, shape, space, size, and the relationships between them (Ezenweani, 2017). He added that it is the science of patterns and layouts by which individuals with a wide perspective and   knowledge to understand real world calculations and realities. The relevance of mathematics is immeasurable since it hangs around analyzing, problem solving with addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions and decimals process skills which are science process skills necessary for day to day life sustenance (Hayes, 2015).  Leopoid (2010) remarked that the brilliant performance of any child motivates him/her to focus on his area of specialization and do more. He also remarked that failure on the part of any student to perform better in the academic usually affects such a child psychologically in their next attempts. This forms the concern of teachers, parents and the government. According to Odumosu (2011) Mathematics has been regarded as the bedrock of science and technology. The progress of science could be determined by the extent to which mathematics has entered into its methods and contents. Adeyegba (2005) in Odumosu (2019) observed that there is hardly any area of science that does not make use of mathematical concepts to explain its own concepts, theories or models. In a similar view, mathematics is regarded as the major tool available for formulating theories in the Science, Engineering, and Economics as well as in other fields (Abiodun, 2018). Mathematics without any doubt remains the most serviceable science subject to all disciplines and fields of human work and study. According to Leo (1998) in Onyeneho (2017), Mathematics enhances students critical thinking in domains involving judgment based on data and stimulates the type of independent thinking required beyond the confines of textbooks. Mathematics is the creation of human mind, concern primarily with ideas, processes, and reasoning. It is much more than arithmetic, the science of numbers and computation. Mathematics is a way of thinking, a way of organizing logical proof used to solve different problems in science, decision making and industry.

Ukeje (2017) described the importance and the attention given to Mathematics as stemming from the fact that without Mathematics, there is no science, without science, there is no modern technology, and without modern technology, there is no modern society. Ale (1989) in Simeon and Francis (2019) Opined that mathematics is the queen of science and technology and also a tool for scientific and technological development. Ojerinde (2013) defined mathematics as “the communication system of those concepts of shape, size, quantity and order used to describe diverse phenomena”. It is a language of size, order and symbol: just like English. Madu and Hogan (2020) opined that Mathematics is made up of a set of concepts, facts, principles, and operations that are fundamental to the existence of every individual. Stephen (2021) saw Mathematics as a set of precise and logical language, which not only lead to interesting activities in their own right but can also be applied to everyday life and is used as description or models in science and other areas. Stephen (2021) described mathematics as the mother or queen of all sciences and that diverse phenomenon in physical, biological and economic situations can be communicated through the concept of shape, quantity, size and order. To Marut (2014) it is the mother and language of all sciences”. More complete but related to Marut’s definition is that offered by Aminu (2010) that” is not only the language of science” it is the essential nutrient for thought, logic, reasoning and therefore progress, while Olosunde and Olaleye (2010) believe that mathematics is the fundamental science that is necessary for understanding of most fields. According to Ajayi (2011) Mathematics is the queen of all sciences and servant to all discipline. The summary of the matter is that of Abubakar (2015) who said Mathematics is the foundation of all science and also very embodiment of precision and brevity.

E-Learning on the other hand is a term that encompasses a broad array of content and instruction methods, and that has come to mean a new model of education involving revised curriculum, infrastructure, teacher professional development, textbooks, and exams to provide students with technology and “21st century skills” such as creative problem solving (Justin, 2021). A particularly useful aspect of ICT in education includes accessing the enormous number of educational resources on the Internet and online libraries. E-learning refers to a learning system that we can obtain through the internet using an electronic device. We also call it online learning or online education. The ‘E’ in E-learning stands for ‘Electronic.’ Hence, the original term ‘electronic learning.’ The term may also refer to a network that can provide knowledge and skills to one or more individuals. The network can provide the knowledge or skills either to everyone simultaneously or individually. E-learning is training provided via a computer or other digital device, allowing technology to facilitate learning anytime, anywhere. E-learning refers to a learning system based on formalised teaching but with the help of electronic resources. While teaching can be based in or out of the classrooms, the use of computers and the Internet forms the major component of E-learning. E-learning can also be termed as a network enabled transfer of skills and knowledge, and the delivery of education is made to a large number of recipients at the same or different times (Robert, 2018).  E-learning, also referred to as online learning or electronic learning, is the acquisition of knowledge which takes place through electronic technologies and media. In simple language, e-learning is defined as “learning that is enabled electronically”. Typically, e-learning is conducted on the Internet, where students can access their learning materials online at any place and time (Austin, 2018). E-Learning most often takes place in the form of online courses, online degrees, or online programs. Online learning has numerous advantages over traditional learning methods.  Sarah (2017) defines e-learning as electronic media used for various learning purposes ranging from conventional classroom add-on functions to online substitution for face-to-face meetings with online encounters. Robert (2018) defined E-learning as instructions delivered through digital devices with the intent of supporting learning.  Johnson (2020) defined e-learning as using information and communication technologies to for enabling access to online teaching and learning resources.  They added that e-learning as using Internet technologies for enhancing performance and knowledge.  It is a learning by utilizing electronic technologies for accessing educational curriculums outside of traditional classrooms.

The introduction of computers was the basis of this revolution and with the passage of time, as we get hooked to smartphones, tablets, etc, these devices now have an importance place in the classrooms for learning (Olaniyi, 2018). Books are gradually getting replaced by electronic educational materials like optical discs or pen drives. Knowledge can also be shared via the Internet, which is accessible 24/7, anywhere,      anytime. The networking of teachers, students and others can also produce a lively community sharing information, ideas and strategies (Yook and Egidio, 2019). The provision of an E-Learning system is an important factor in providing a comprehensive Information and Communications Technology solution within schools. Blackboard and other similar systems provide an easy to use, well-structured medium to assist learning and teaching because students and teachers are able to access information from anywhere around          the       world.

E-learning (EL) basically involves use and application of information and communication technologies (ICT) at web sites, personal computers (PCs), tablet PCs, cell phones, learning management system (LMS), televisions (TVs), radios and other means to improve teaching and learning processes. E-learning is really a unifying phrase accustomed to explain the areas associated with the internet, web-based instruction and technologies directions (Oye & Iahad, 2018). In that respect, e-learning is substantially becoming a learning strategy in the realms of teaching, practical learning, skills training and development and many corporate functions as evidenced by massive development of web technologies.

The integration of technological awareness and learning in secondary schools is today making significant strides towards use of more interactive e-learning strategies to effectively enhance overall performance of college students and their trained personnel. In many developed economies, several academic institutions make use of extremely interactive e-learning that directly enhances students’ performance (Soleymanpour, Khalkhali and Reayatkoonandeh, 2017). In the recent era, technologies have indeed become devices accustomed to get rid of physical obstacles and allow students to learn at anytime and anywhere without having physical interaction with the instructor. Against this background, e-Learning therefore improves easy access to effective teaching and learning, and thus enhancing students’ academic efficiency.

According to Heeger (2018), e-learning enables numerous secondary school students to take similar programs concurrently. Nowadays, educational systems have grown to enjoy the reasonable instructions in addition to their learning. Research findings indicate that e-learning systems permit instruction method geared to improve top quality related to instruction and students’ academic achievement. Soleymanpour, Khalkhali and Reayatkoonandeh (2017) further elaborate that those private secondary school that have demonstrated remarkable use of e-learning generally perform quite much better than student counterparts who much rely on use of face-to-face communications and physical interactions with their instructors.

Heeger (2019) report shows that secondary school students who generally participate in online or e-learning achieve far better amounts compared to secondary school students who examined traditional methods. Due to emergence of advancements in educational technology, e- learning is currently gaining substantial attention in education and for this reason; several educational institutions are now pursuing application of electronic learning programs. As such, e-learning is continuously becoming well-established in a number of both private and public education institutions in the world nowadays. Most of these education institutions have become aware of the impacts related to e-learning on students’ academic achievement.

A broad range of learning approaches exists already, for example, e-learning, blended learning, and distance learning which utilize information and communication technology (ICT). The use of ICT can benefit, for example, students in rural areas by having them attend classes as distance learners and motivating them to learn. Regarding this, the potential of e-learning seems very assuring, but because of gaps between developed and developing countries knowledge transfer is not only difficult but also costly. There is little systematic research into the overall effectiveness of e-learning as a learning medium despite the great interest in it, while there is much more work to be done, a variety of e-learning courses aimed at making sustainable development a reality have been developed and demonstrate how e-learning can reach thousands if not millions of minds and potentially plant the seeds of change.

According to case studies, there are already a number of e-learning programs offered in developing countries. These programs are developed by various national and international initiatives. The growth of e-learning programs according to Lockwood & Gooley (2019) is driven by the need for and potential of providing education in less expensive ways, increased access to information, effective learning and greater flexibility.

Academic performance on the other hand according to Roy (2021), is the ability to study and remember facts and being able to communicate your knowledge verbally or on paper. In other words, academic performance refers to how students deal with their studies and how they cope with or accomplish different tasks given to them by their teachers.  Academic performance generally refers to how well a student is accomplishing his/her tasks or studies. Academic achievement or academic performance is the extent to which a student, teacher or institution has attained their short or long-term educational goals. Completion of educational benchmarks such as secondary school diplomas and bachelor’s degrees represent academic achievement (Olaniyi, 2021). Academic achievement is commonly measured through examinations or continuous assessments but there is no general agreement on how it is best evaluated or which aspects are most important procedural knowledge such as skills or declarative knowledge such as facts (Johnson, 2020).

E-learning, no doubt has the potential of enhancing students’ study habit, participation in learning activities and Motivation towards learning mathematics.

Study habit is defined as those techniques such as summarizing, note taking, outlining or locating materials which learners employ to assist themselves in the efficient leaning of the materials which is at hand.  It plays a vital role in the development of human capital and is linked with an individual well – being and opportunities for better living. It ensures the acquisition of knowledge and skills that enable individuals to increase in their productivity and improve in their quality of life. Paivio (2020), noted that habits of study, which are formed in school, have greater significance and students must realize the need to acquire these effective study habits. Effective studying will help students to prepare schoolwork in less time to achieve greater degree of mastery of the lesson. Students who study effectively and efficiently utilize methods of learning which aid the acquisition, retention, application of knowledge, facts and information from textbook and class discussion, lectures and other resources. According to Pascual (2019), Study habits or study strategies are approaches applied to learning. They are generally critical to success in school, are considered essential for acquiring good grades, and are useful for learning throughout one’s life. There are arrays of study skills, which may tackle the process of organizing and taking in new information, retaining information, or dealing with assessments. They include mnemonic, which aid the retention of lists of information, effective reading and concentration techniques, as well as efficient note taking. Effective study habits are often up to the students and their support, however there is evident that they are increasingly taught at Secondary Schools and university levels. It is believed that the development of study habits helps a person become successful and productive.

Students’ participation in learning activities simply means taking part in the teaching and learning process. Not as passive listeners, but active participants. Active participation in class improves objective and subjective students’ performance in any given school subject. Active learning techniques and the associated student engagement during teaching leads to a greater number of students meeting the learning outcomes and thus, by extension, improved academic performance (Olaniyi, 2021). Student participation requires the mental and emotional involvement of students in order for them to achieve their aims (Frymier & Houser, 2018). Their participation in class is usually spontaneous, and occurs naturally (Abdullah, Bakar & Mahbob, 2020). Participation of students in group activities is usually not the same and they participate in different ways. The goal of increasing participation is not to have every student participate in the same way or at the same rate. Instead, it is to create an environment in which all participants have the opportunity to learn and in which the class explore issues and ideas in-depth, from a variety of viewpoints. Certain students will raise their voices more than others; this variation is a result of differences in learning preferences, as well as in personalities. Teamwork can help overcome many shortcomings of traditional learning methods and provide benefits for the students and teachers, where students become more active (Brown, 2012). Students can learn better when they are participating, involved mentally, and are committed in the process of investigation, discovery, and interpretation (Tesfaye & Berhanu, 2018).

However, the use of e-learning in teaching mathematics is not without challenges. Hence the need to ascertain effect of E-Learning on Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Junior Secondary Schools.

Statement of the Problem

In recent years, the integration of technology into educational practices has revolutionized traditional teaching methods across the globe. Particularly in the realm of mathematics education, the advent of electronic learning (e-learning) platforms has presented a paradigm shift in how students engage with mathematical concepts and theories. With the rapid advancement of digital technologies and the increasing accessibility of electronic resources, understanding the impact of e-learning on students’ mathematical proficiency is paramount for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in the educational sector.

The Oshimili South Local Government Area, like many other regions in Nigeria, grapples with challenges in its educational system, including limited resources, overcrowded classrooms, and varying levels of teacher expertise. Amidst these challenges, the integration of e-learning tools offers a promising avenue to enhance the quality of education and address the diverse learning needs of students, particularly in mathematics—a subject often perceived as challenging by many learners. By leveraging digital platforms, interactive software, and multimedia resources, e-learning endeavors to provide students with personalized learning experiences, foster deeper conceptual understanding, and promote independent problem-solving skills in mathematics.

However, while the potential benefits of e-learning in mathematics education are widely acknowledged, empirical evidence regarding its effectiveness in improving students’ academic performance remains inconclusive, especially within the Nigerian educational context. Factors such as digital literacy, access to technology infrastructure, teacher training, and socio-economic disparities may influence the extent to which e-learning initiatives impact students’ mathematical learning outcomes. Thus, a comprehensive investigation into the relationship between e-learning and academic performance in mathematics is crucial for informing educational policies and practices tailored to the specific needs of students in Oshimili South and similar settings. It is against the light of the above that this study seeks to examine the effect of E-Learning on Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Junior Secondary Schools in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Purpose of the Study

The main purpose of this study is to examine the effect of E-Learning on Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Junior Secondary Schools in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State. Specifically, the study seeks to:

1. Identify the e-learning facilities used in teaching mathematics in Junior Secondary School in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State.
2. Examine the influence of E-Learning on Students’ study habit towards learning Mathematics in Junior Secondary School in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State.
3. Ascertain the influence of E-Learning on Students’ participation in learning Mathematics in Junior Secondary School in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State.
4. Factors affecting the effectiveness of E-Learning in enhancing Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Junior Secondary School in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Research Questions

The following questions were raised to guide the study:

1. What are the e-learning facilities used in teaching mathematics in Junior Secondary School in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State?
2. How does E-Learning influence Students’ study habit towards learning Mathematics in Junior Secondary School in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State?
3. How does E-Learning influence Students’ participation in learning Mathematics in Junior Secondary School in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State.
4. What are the factors affecting the effectiveness of E-Learning in enhancing Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Junior Secondary School in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State?

Significance of the Study

Findings of this study would be of great benefit to students, teachers, government and future researchers.

Understanding how e-learning impacts academic performance in mathematics can empower students to leverage technology for their learning. It provides insights into effective study methods and encourages students to engage with educational platforms beyond traditional classrooms. Students can adapt their learning strategies based on the findings to improve their academic outcomes.

Teachers could incorporate e-learning tools and methods into their teaching practices, enhancing the effectiveness of their instruction. Understanding the impact of e-learning on academic performance can guide teachers in designing engaging and interactive lessons. It may also highlight areas where teachers need additional training or support in utilizing technology for teaching mathematics effectively.

Governments can use the findings to inform policies related to technology integration in education. It can guide investment decisions in educational technology infrastructure and resources. Governments can also implement initiatives to train teachers in utilizing e-learning platforms effectively and equitably across schools.

The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the effectiveness of e-learning in improving academic performance, particularly in mathematics. It provides a foundation for future research exploring different aspects of e-learning and its impact on student outcomes.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study focused on effect of E-Learning on Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics in Junior Secondary School. With particular emphasis on kinds of e-learning facilities, influence on students’ study habit, participation in learning mathematics and factors affecting the effectiveness of e-learning in enhancing students’ academic performance in mathematics.  Respondents of the study are public juniors secondary schools students and mathematics teaches in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Definition of Terms

E-learning: E-learning, short for electronic learning, refers to the use of electronic technologies, primarily the internet, to facilitate learning outside of a traditional classroom setting. It encompasses a wide range of educational activities conducted through digital platforms, including online courses, virtual classrooms, interactive multimedia content, educational apps, and more.

Mathematics: Mathematics is often described as the study of patterns and relationships among quantities, numbers, shapes, and structures. It is a systematic and logical approach to solving problems and understanding the world around us. Mathematics provides a language and framework for describing and analyzing phenomena in fields ranging from physics and engineering to economics and social sciences.

Academic Performance: Academic performance refers to how well a student is achieving in their studies within an educational setting, typically measured by grades, test scores, and other indicators of learning such as class participation, homework completion, and project quality. It encompasses various aspects of a student’s performance, including their understanding of subject matter, critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and overall engagement with the learning process.

Study Habit: Study habits refer to the behaviors, routines, and techniques that individuals employ to facilitate effective learning and academic success. These habits encompass various activities such as how students organize their time, approach their coursework, and engage with learning materials. Effective study habits can significantly impact academic performance and contribute to long-term success in education.

Participation in Learning Activities: Participation in learning activities refers to actively engaging in various educational experiences, both inside and outside the classroom, to enhance learning and contribute to academic success.

Pages:  67

Category: Project

Format:  Word & PDF               

Chapters: 1-5                                          

Source: Imsuinfo

Material contains Table of Content, Abstract and References.