Impact of Study Skills on Accountancy Achievement

Abstract

Despite its perceived difficulty, accountancy remains a popular choice for students at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). However, poor student performance persists. This study explored the impact of study skills on accountancy achievement, focusing on second-year diploma students at the University of Johannesburg. Several factors hinder success, including students needing an accountancy background, the high school-HEI gap, and English language barriers. A literature review was conducted to investigate scholarly suggestions about general study skills and, in particular, for the study of Accountancy to succeed. The study adopted the quantitative research method to determine which study skills second-year accountancy students apply when learning and why they fail Accountancy examinations and formal class tests. A questionnaire focussing upon the various aspects of study skills used when studying Accountancy and, in general, was furnished to 800 students in their Second Year Diploma in Accountancy at the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto Campus. Descriptive statistics in proportions, frequencies, means, standard deviations and t-tests were used to compare the differences between the two groups of these students. In addition, correlations between variables were used to analyse the quantitative data collected. Findings revealed significant correlations between solid study skills and superior academic performance. Based on this, the study recommends: Study skills courses: Equipping students with time management, note-taking, and test preparation skills, along with specific accountancy study techniques. Early intervention: Integrating comprehensive study skills training into First Year, ideally as a dedicated course. Enhanced teaching: Encouraging lecturers to dedicate time to teaching effective study methods alongside accountancy concepts. Institutional support: Implementing a university-wide study skills program to offer ongoing support. By addressing the challenges and prioritising adequate study skills training, HEIs can significantly improve accountancy students' success and academic performance.