DETERMINANTS OF ADOLESCENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Abstract

This is a survey study that investigated the factors that determine adolescents’ academic achievement. A total of 300 senior secondary school students randomly selected from different secondary schools were used as samples for the study.

                The AP5FI (Academic Performance 5-Factor Inventory) by Aremu (2002) was used to collect data for the study. The instrument has a coefficient value of 0.79 (Aremu and Sokan, 2002). The data collected with the instrument was analyzed using multiple regression analysis.

                Two research questions were raised and tested in the study. The result of data analysis showed that the combined effect of the five independent variables on students’ academic achievement was statistically significant (F=9.57, P<0.05). The result also showed that the causations resident in child and family made the most significant contribution to students’ academic achievement (P<0.05) while the other independent variables - school, society and government - did not contribute significantly (P<0.05).

           Recommendations were made to affect the poor academic performance in secondary school. The implication of the findings of this study is that stakeholders in the educational system should present education in a light that would motivate the child. Parents and guardians should provide an academically stimulating environment for the children at home in order to enhance their academic performance.