Introduction
This proposal preliminary cover the following subheading : background of the study,
statement of the problem, research questions and objectives, significance of the study, review
of related literature. The researcher will define the following key terms, Mathematics
dropouts and secondary schools.
Background of the Study
Mathematics is a fundamental subject that plays a crucial role in the development of individuals
and societies. However, despite its importance, mathematics dropout rates have been
increasing in secondary schools in Gwanda North, Zimbabwe. This trend is alarming and
warrants investigation.The problem of mathematics dropouts in Gwanda North is evident in the
following indicator : poor mathematics performance. learners in Gwanda North have
consistently performed poorly in mathematics, with many failing to meet the minimum
requirements for progression to the next level.The increasing mathematics dropout rates in
Gwanda North prompted this study. As a concerned educator and researcher, I am motivated
to investigate the causes of this trend and identify potential solutions. By understanding the
factors that contribute to mathematics dropouts, educators and policymakers can develop
targeted strategies to address this issue and promote learners success in mathematics.
Statement of the problem
The increasing mathematics dropout rate in secondary schools in Gwanda is a significant
concern that requires immediate attention. The main problem is to identify the causes of this
trend and to investigate the relationship between learners'performance in mathematics and
their decision to drop the subject.The problem is solving the gap between the desired (high
mathematics education outcomes) and actual (high mathematics dropout rates) scenarios in
secondary schools in Gwanda North.
Research Questions
1. What are the main reasons why students drop mathematics in secondary schools in Gwanda?
2. Is there a relationship between learners'performance in mathematics and their decision to
drop the subject?
3. What role do teachers, parents, and the school environment play in influencing learners'
decisions to drop mathematics?
Research Objectives
1. To identify the main causes of mathematics dropouts in secondary schools in Gwanda.
2. To investigate the relationship between learners' performance in mathematics and their
decision to drop the subject.
3. To examine the role of teachers, parents, and the school environment in influencing learners'
decisions to drop mathematics.
A Review of Related Literature
Introduction
Mathematics dropouts have become a significant concern in secondary schools worldwide.
Research by OECD ,(2014) has shown that mathematics dropouts can have severe
consequences on individuals, communities, and societies as a whole.This literature review aims
to synthesize existing research on mathematics dropouts, identify gaps in current research, and
provide insights for future studies.
1 ). Lack of motivation
According to Ma & Xu, (2004) , students who lack interest and enthusiasm towards
mathematics tend to perform poorly and eventually drop the subject. When students are not
motivated, they may not see the relevance or importance of mathematics, leading to a lack of
effort and engagement.
2. Poor Teaching Methods
Hativa, (2013) , posits that poor teaching methods, such as rote learning and lack of hands-on
activities, can lead to student disengagement and dropout . When teaching methods are
ineffective, students may become bored, disconnected, and less likely to succeed in
mathematics.
3. Inadequate Teacher Support
Inadequate teacher support, including lack of feedback and guidance, can further exacerbate
the problem of mathematics dropouts . When teachers do not provide sufficient support,
students may struggle to understand mathematical concepts, leading to frustration and
disengagement.
4. Socio-economic Constraints
Socio- economic constraints, such as poverty and limited access to resources, can hinder
learners' ability to succeed in mathematics . Ladson-Billings,( 1995) , says that when students
face socioeconomic challenges, they may lack access to quality educational resources, tutors,
and other support systems that can help them succeed in mathematics.
Conclusion
Mathematics dropouts are a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that requires a
comprehensive and understanding. This literature review has synthesized existing research on
mathematics dropouts, identified gaps in current research, and provided insights for future
studies. By addressing these gaps and developing effective interventions, we can work towards
reducing mathematics dropout rates and promoting student success in mathematics.
Methodology
This section outlines the research design, population, sample and sampling procedure, data
collection instruments, data presentation and analysis, and the procedures used to investigate
the causes of increasingly Mathematics dropouts in secondary schools in Gwanda North. The
approach is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the various causes influencing
dropouts in mathematics, as identified in the literature review.
Research Design
This study will employ a mixed-methods research design, combining both quantitative and
qualitative approaches. This design will enable the researcher to collect both numerical data
and rich, descriptive data, providing a comprehensive understanding of the causes of
mathematics dropouts in secondary schools in Gwanda North.
Population and Sample
The population of interest for this study is secondary school students in Gwanda North who
have dropped mathematics. The sample will consist of 200 students who will be selected using
stratified random sampling technique. Additionally, 20 students will be selected for in-depth
interviews, and 10 mathematics teachers and school administrators will participate in focus
group discussions.
Data Collection Instruments
The data collection instruments for this study will include a survey questionnaire for students,
an in-depth interview guide for students, and a focus group discussion guide for mathematics
teachers and school administrators. The survey questionnaire will be used to collect
quantitative data, while the in-depth interviews and focus group discussions will be used to
collect qualitative data.
Data Presentation and Analysis
The data collected for this study will be presented and analyzed using various statistical and
analytical techniques. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, and
standard deviations will be used to summarize the quantitative data. Inferential statistics such
as regression analysis and chi-square tests will be used to analyze the relationships between
variables. Thematic analysis will be used to analyze the qualitative data.
Procedures
The procedures for this study will involve several steps. First, a pilot study will be conducted to
test the validity and reliability of the data collection instruments. Next, the survey
questionnaire will be administered to the selected students, and in-depth interviews and focus
group discussions will be conducted. The data will then be cleaned and edited to ensure
accuracy and completeness. Finally, the data will be analyzed and interpreted, and the findings
will be presented in a clear and concise manner.
