Factors Influencing Students Academic Performance
Keywords:
Study habits, Learning environment, Socio-economic status, Academic performance, Students, Educational outcomes, School environmentAbstract
The study examined factors influencing students’ academic performance, focusing on study habits, learning environment and socio-economic status. A descriptive survey research design was adopted to obtain quantitative data from a sample of 289 respondents selected through a multi-stage sampling technique across selected educational institutions. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Students’ Academic Performance Determinants Questionnaire (SAPDQ), administered both electronically and physically to ensure wider coverage and triangulation. The instrument’s validity was established through expert review, while reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient exceeding the acceptable threshold. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and simple linear regression techniques. Findings revealed that study habits significantly influenced academic performance with R = 0.76 and R² = 0.58, indicating substantial explanatory power. Learning environment also showed significant influence with R = 0.69 and R² = 0.48, while socio-economic status demonstrated the strongest relationship with R = 0.81 and R² = 0.66. Descriptive results indicated high levels of agreement among respondents regarding the importance of structured study practices, conducive learning environments and access to resources. The study established that variations in academic performance were systematically linked to behavioural, environmental and socio-economic factors. The findings further confirmed that these variables operate interactively in shaping students’ academic outcomes. Recommendations emphasised the need for improved study strategies, enhanced learning environments and increased support from both institutions and families to optimise academic performance.
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