Influence of Gender and Socio-Economic Factors on Students Performance in Mathematics in Shomulu Local Government Area of Lagos State

Abstract

Mathematics is not only compulsory in primary and secondary schools but a sin qua non for gaining admission to any tertiary institution in Nigeria. This study examined the influence of gender and scio-economic factors on students’ performance in mathematics in shomulu Local Government Area of Lagos state. The study used the survey design in the collection of data. The method of data analysis adopted in this study was based on Lewin’s 1979 interaction theory which is expected to influence the dependent variable, that is performance in mathematics, and the explanatory variables are gender and socio-economic factors. Multiple equations are adopted because, according to Pyndyck and Rubinbfeld (1995), a dynamic equation provides a better representation of the real world. The researcher concluded there is significant difference between the students’ gender and performance in mathematics. It was recommended the boys and girls should be given equal opportunities in studying mathematics and other related discipline, and parents whose academic background are low should make efforts to improve themselves educationally so that they would be able to cater for the education needs of their children.

Keywords: Gender, Socio-economic, Students, Performance, Mathematics