Socio-Economic Aspects as a Measuring Tool in Learner Performance

Authors

  • Gawie Schlebusch Central University of Technology, South Africa, Box 1881, Welkom Campus, South Africa
  • Matsolo Mokhampanyane Central University of Technology, South Africa, Box 1881, Welkom Campus, South Africa
  • Motlalepula Mahlatsi Central University of Technology, South Africa, Box 1881, Welkom Campus, South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23918/ijsses.v9i3p291

Keywords:

Poverty, Academic Performance, Socio-Economic, School Environment

Abstract

 The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of socio-economic aspects on learners’ academic performance at a secondary school in Lejweleputswa District, South Africa. A qualitative research design was employed. A sample of twenty-three participants, comprising of the school principal, School Management Team member, School Governing Body chairperson, ten educators and ten learners were interviewed to make meaningful sense of their perceptions on socio-economic aspects affecting learners’ academic performance. Data was collected through semi-structured telephone interviews with the principal, SMT member and SGB chairperson, and open-ended questionnaires with teachers and learners. Data was analyzed using the thematic approach. It was discovered from the data that the socio-economic conditions in the learners’ home background, the school environment, parental support and teacher expectations impacted on learners’ academic performance. Learner’s family background also plays a major role in developing a strong relationship between all the parties involved in learner’s academic life but however, some parents were still not fully supportive of their children’s education. The results of the study indicated that learners’ academic performance improved in circumstances where there is teamwork between educators, SMT, learners, parents and other stakeholders.

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Published

05.09.2022

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How to Cite

Schlebusch, G., Mokhampanyane, M., & Mahlatsi, M. (2022). Socio-Economic Aspects as a Measuring Tool in Learner Performance. International Journal of Social Sciences & Educational Studies, 9(3), 291-304. https://doi.org/10.23918/ijsses.v9i3p291

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