Econometric Evidence on Academic Performance in Basic Calculus of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Senior High Students

Abstract

Low academic performance in high school mathematics is a deeply-rooted concern in the Philippine education system. With the implementation of the K to 12 Education program, this has drawn more concern in the academe, most especially in mathematics. Basic Calculus is a mathematics course that usually serves as requisite to different collegiate courses which may hopefully be useful in their respective major fields. This study was conducted to evaluate the different factors affecting the academic performance in Basic Calculus of all senior high schools enrolled in SY 2017-2018. Using a mixed-method research approach, this paper employed Grade 11 STEM students enrolled from the time of the study. A structured questionnaire on students’ perception towards Basic Calculus served as instrument to gather information. Descriptive measures were used to summarize the different factors and regression modelling was undertaken to identify the significant factors influencing the academic performance of the students. Results of the study revealed that in order for the students to perform well in Basic Calculus they must first understand the basic skills in Pre-calculus. The students may perform well when they highly favor the said subject. Furthermore, students’ academic performance in Basic Calculus may still remain to be limited by knowledge, interest, and capability. Hence, academic performance of the said subject was not derived from socio-demographic profile of students, economic resources, and student’s perception to teacher but to their past knowledge and interest in mathematics.