An Investigation on how learners perform in the teaching and learning of directed numbers at Zimbabwe junior certificate form two at a secondary school in Chikomba district
- Author
- Karikoga, Tariro N.
- Title
- An Investigation on how learners perform in the teaching and learning of directed numbers at Zimbabwe junior certificate form two at a secondary school in Chikomba district
- Abstract
-
This study investigated how learners perform in the teaching and learning of directed numbers at a secondary school in Chikomba District. The research was motivated by persistent poor performance in mathematics among learners, particularly in operations involving directed numbers. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected using achievement tests, questionnaires, classroom observations, and interviews with teachers. A purposive sample of ten Form Two learners and two mathematics teachers participated in the study.
The findings revealed that most learners exhibited difficulties with addition and subtraction of directed numbers, especially when negative signs were involved. Questionnaire responses indicated that learners lacked confidence in solving directed number problems and often relied on rote methods rather than conceptual understanding. Classroom observations further showed that teachers mainly used the lecture method, with limited use of learner-centered strategies. However, after targeted interventions and practice tests, learners showed noticeable improvement in their performance.
The study concludes that poor performance in directed numbers stems from conceptual misconceptions, limited use of teaching aids, and overreliance on teacher-centered methods. It recommends the adoption of interactive teaching approaches, use of visual aids such as number lines, and continuous assessment to monitor learner progress. The study contributes to improving the teaching and learning of mathematics at secondary school level and provides practical recommendations for enhancing learner performance in directed numbers.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Directed Numbers
- Form Two
- Teaching and Learning
- Secondary School
- Supervisor
- Dr. Chagwiza
- Item sets
- Faculty of Science Education
- Media
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Karikoga, Tariro. N .pdf