A comparative study of factors affecting students' academic performance in catholic and secular secondary schools in Wakiso and Kampala Districts

Abstract

This study investigated the factors affecting academic performance in both secular and catholic secondary schools in Kampala and Wakiso Districts. The study particularly sought to establish how systems of administration, teachers’ recruitment methods, instructional materials and school culture affect students’ academic performance in both types of schools.

The study was conducted using a cross sectional survey design and data was collected using questionnaire, interview guide, observation and documentary analysis. A total of 246 respondents were involved in the study including 12 headteachers, 15 deputy headteachers, 11 directors of studies, 205 teachers, 1 Archdiocese education secretary and two education officers with both Wakiso and Kampala being represented by one. Headteachers, deputy headteachers, director of studies, Archdiocese education secretary and district education officers were purposively selected while Simple random sampling was used to select teachers. Data was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative techniques with a lot of descriptions assisted by frequencies and percentages.

The study revealed better academic performance in catholic than secular schools. Good system of administration in catholic schools was noted with better induction programmes for the new recruited staff, efficient communication, staff motivation and team work. The shortage of materials for information technology, science subjects and vocational education were noted affecting academic performance in both secular and catholic schools. School culture was recognized in both schools but strongly entrenched in catholic schools. Teachers in both Catholic and secular schools were recruited following the recommended human resource employment policy.

It was then concluded that catholic schools were performing better than secular schools because of sound financial management, dedicated internal supervision and inspection, strong teacher motivation and great respect for school culture.

It was recommended that; Regular workshops and seminars should be organized for schools so as to impart better management skills for improved schools performance. The school management should deeply involve teachers in the running of secondary schools using delegation and staff meetings. Secondary schools should build strong school culture to guide students’ behavior and dedication for educational goals. Motivation of teachers should be given strong consideration.