Some gender differences in performance in senior high mathematics examinations in mixed high schools

Abstract

The paper examined the expected causes of gender difference in the performance of mathematics among boys and girls in mixed senior high schools in the Upper East Region of Ghana. Questionnaire and interviews were used for data collection. Results indicated that, boys’ performances outweighed those of girls, as it was evident that girls’ lack of self-confidence was a contributing factor or a major cause of the difference in performances. It was also found out that, students’ interest in mathematics was influenced by personal interests and teaching methods. On students’ performance analysis, the class of the student, the number of educated people in the student’s house and the sex of the student were found to be linearly related. Furthermore, perceived gender difference caused school drop-out and poor choices of girls relative to boys. It was inferred that, this aspect of the study, for gender equity in decision making cannot be achieved once gender difference in mathematics ability of boys and girls is not resolved. Also, the capacity to educate pupils from the elementary schools will remain incomplete as women always passed on these perception and belief to younger generation even before they start to make their own choice in academics.