Factors Affecting Senior Secondary School Biology Students Academic Achievement in University of Nigeria Nsukka Senior Secondary School

Abstract This study investigated the factors affecting senior secondary school students’ academic achievement in Biology at the University Secondary School, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population consisted of 150 SS2 Biology students, and no sampling was made since the population was manageable. A structured questionnaire titled Factors Affecting Senior Secondary School Biology Students’ Academic Achievement Questionnaire (FASSSBSAAQ) was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using mean andstandard deviation. Findings revealed that students’ poor performance in Biology is influenced by multiple interrelated factors associated with teachers, students, parents, and the school environment. Teacher-related factors included inadequate number of qualified Biology teachers, poor teaching methods, and insufficient instructional materials. Student-related factors included poor study habits, lack of interest, and inability to understand biological concepts. Parental factors such as low socio-economic status, limited educational background, and lack of financial support also contributed to poor achievement. School-related factors such as inadequate laboratories, insufficient classrooms, and lack of seminars and workshops for teachers further affected students’ performance. The study concluded that improving students’ academic achievement in Biology requires a holistic approach that addresses all these areas. It was recommended that qualified Biology teachers be employed, adequate instructional materials and laboratory facilities be provided, regular teacher training and seminars be organized, and parents be encouraged to provide financial and moral support to their children’s education.