Sources of geography class enjoyment and boredom among bhutanese secondary school students

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the potential sources of enjoyment and boredom in geography classes among Bhutanese secondary school students. Utilizing open-ended surveys and semi-structured interviews, 206 participants aged 17 to 22, predominantly from classes 11 and 12, shared their perspectives. The thematic analysis of the data revealed four sources that contributed to students' enjoyment and boredom in geography classes. The findings on sources of enjoyment included sources like enthusiasm, encouragement, friendliness and support which emerged as crucial contributors to enjoyment. Moreover, video-integrated lessons, field trips, and challenging and hands-on activities, actively contributed to positive emotional experiences. Additionally, individual interest in geography, aspirations to become geographers, the relevance of materials and topics to learners' interests, were found to enhance geography class enjoyment. Conversely, the findings on sources of boredom included monotonous teaching methods, poorly prepared lessons, difficult content, dissatisfaction with presentation tasks, textbook-based activities, lack of interest in the subject or negative moods linked to boredom. Altogether, this study contributes to the growing research trend, focusing on the dimensions of students' emotions in the learning process. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations are made and directions for future research are presented.