The Effectiveness of Grade 9 Mathematics Teachers in Mahwelereng Circuit Secondary Schools

Abstract

Teacher effectiveness plays an important role in the teaching and learning processes as aspects of education. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of grade 9 mathematics teachers and its influence on learner performance. The study was led by three research objectives which were to examine the influence of teacher effectiveness on learner performance in mathematics, to explore what teachers can do to improve their teaching effectiveness of grade 9 mathematics, and to identify the qualities and attributes that influence learner performance in mathematics. It is important to address these questions to help school districts and policy makers in finding the solution to close the gap. An evaluation tool like a Teacher Effectiveness Rubric or Teacher Evaluation Rubric Score for a specified school year can be implemented. Research was conducted around it and relevant literatures were reviewed on themes and findings that emerged from different authors concerning effectiveness of mathematics teachers. This study involved five secondary schools and participants were five grade 9 mathematics teachers and their heads of departments. All participants were purposely selected. Participants agreed to take part by signing consent forms. Data collection was done using interviews, observations, and document analysis. Semi-structured interview questionnaire was conducted, and data was analyzed thematically. Findings recommended future research on how well teachers can approach teaching mathematics effectively and effective teaching methods that can help learners perform better in mathematics. The results provide information on how to increase teacher effectiveness with necessary support.