Examination of Gender Performance in Physics in Mankranso Senior High School


Authors : Thomas Nipielim Tindan; George Aduni

Volume/Issue : Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 10 - October


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/3deudzs2

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/3cn2kerz

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24OCT1500

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : Despite ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity in science education, the persistent gender gap in physics remains a pressing concern. This study investigated potential gender differences in physics performance among senior high school students at Mankranso Senior High School in Ghana. A descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing student physics test scores from a stratified random sample (N = 111; 79 males, 32 females) from a population of 184 students. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests were used to analyse the data. Descriptive statistics revealed a slightly higher mean score for females (M = 43.65, SD = 21.78) compared to males (M = 39.39, SD = 21.15). However, a two-sample t- test (t = - 0.721, df = 56, p = 0.474) showed no statistically significant difference in mean physics test scores between male and female students. Levene’s test for equality of variances (F = 0.210, p = 0.649) confirmed that the variability of scores was not significantly different between genders. The following conclusion was made, while females have a slightly higher average score (42.31) compared to males (41.29), the difference is not statistically significant. The study emphasizes the importance of creating equitable learning environments, focusing on individual student needs, and promoting inclusive practices that encourage all students to thrive in STEM fields. The following recommendations was made; be aware of potential unconscious biases that might impact how you interact with or perceive students of different genders. Offer students opportunities for enrichment, advanced coursework, or participation in science competitions. Further investigation and consideration of other potential factors influencing performance is recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding.

Keywords : Cross-Sectional Study, Distribution of Scores, Normal Distribution, Gender Differences, Attitudes, Beliefs, Classroom Dynamics.

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Despite ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity in science education, the persistent gender gap in physics remains a pressing concern. This study investigated potential gender differences in physics performance among senior high school students at Mankranso Senior High School in Ghana. A descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing student physics test scores from a stratified random sample (N = 111; 79 males, 32 females) from a population of 184 students. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests were used to analyse the data. Descriptive statistics revealed a slightly higher mean score for females (M = 43.65, SD = 21.78) compared to males (M = 39.39, SD = 21.15). However, a two-sample t- test (t = - 0.721, df = 56, p = 0.474) showed no statistically significant difference in mean physics test scores between male and female students. Levene’s test for equality of variances (F = 0.210, p = 0.649) confirmed that the variability of scores was not significantly different between genders. The following conclusion was made, while females have a slightly higher average score (42.31) compared to males (41.29), the difference is not statistically significant. The study emphasizes the importance of creating equitable learning environments, focusing on individual student needs, and promoting inclusive practices that encourage all students to thrive in STEM fields. The following recommendations was made; be aware of potential unconscious biases that might impact how you interact with or perceive students of different genders. Offer students opportunities for enrichment, advanced coursework, or participation in science competitions. Further investigation and consideration of other potential factors influencing performance is recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding.

Keywords : Cross-Sectional Study, Distribution of Scores, Normal Distribution, Gender Differences, Attitudes, Beliefs, Classroom Dynamics.

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