Relationship Between Students and Teachers in Classroom Psycho-Social Environments and Academic Achievement in Biology in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State
Relationship Between Students and Teachers in Classroom Psycho-Social Environments and Academic Achievement in Biology in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State
BY
NOVEMBER, 2024
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APPROVAL PAGE
This project has been read and approved as meeting one of the requirements
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Project Supervisor Sign & Date
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DECLARATION
We hereby declare that the contents of this project are true reflection of our
work through the guidance of our supervisor Mal. A. A. Audu. The entire project
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DEDICATION
This research project is dedicated to our parents who took good care of us.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We sincerely thank the Almighty Allah who gave us health and strength
throughout the period of our studies. The conduct and the completion of this
project could not have been possible without the assistance of others. It is against
whom we owe gratitude for training us right and guiding us up to the stage we are
now.
Our deep appreciation goes to our project supervisor Mal. A. A Audu who
assisted us by spending his time to look over our manuscript and guiding us until
the completion of this project despite all his commitment. And we equally
appreciate the effort of our Heads of Department (HOD) and other staff in the
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ABSTRACT
This study examines the relationship between students and teachers within the psycho-social
classroom environment and its impact on academic achievement in Biology among senior
secondary school students in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State. The objectives
include assessing the standard of classroom environments, comparing standards between
private and public schools, and analyzing the correlation between classroom environment
quality and students' academic performance. A descriptive research design was employed,
targeting a population of 8,950 students from 12 secondary schools. Using simple random
sampling, four schools were selected, with a total sample size of 331 students determined via the
Krejcie and Morgan table. Data collection involved standardized qualifying examinations (QE)
from the Katsina State Ministry of Education, with reliability assured through pre-established
testing protocols. Analysis utilized both descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) to
address the research questions and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation and independent t-
tests) to test hypotheses. Findings are expected to reveal significant insights into how classroom
environments influence academic performance, providing recommendations for optimizing
teacher-student interactions and learning conditions in Biology classrooms. This research
underscores the critical role of psycho-social classroom dynamics in fostering academic
excellence, contributing to educational development in Jibia Local Government Area.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title page - - - - - - - - - i
Approval page - - - - - - - - - ii
Declaration - - - - - - - - - iii
Dedication - - - - - - - - - - iv
Acknowledgements - - - - - - - - - v
Abstract - - - - - - - - - -
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1.6 Hypotheses - - - - - - - - - 7
2.1 Introduction - - - - - - - - - 10
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2.2.3 Concept of Environmental - - - - - - - 11
2.3.2 The System Theory of Weihrich (1988) (Input and Output Model) - - 17
2.3.3.5 Self-actualization - - - - - - - - 18
2.5 Summary - - - - - - - - - 22
3.1 Introduction - - - - - - - - - 24
3.5 Instrumentation - - - - - - - - 26
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3.6 Reliability of the Instrument - - - - - - - 26
4.1. Introduction - - - - - - - - - 28
5.1 Introduction - - - - - - - - - 33
5.2 Summary - - - - - - - - - 33
5.3 Conclusion - - - - - - - - - 34
5.4 Recommendations - - - - - - - - 35
References - - - - - - - - - - 36
Appendix I - - - - - - - - - - 38
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
All academic activities whether curricular or extracurricular originate from school the
environment and they work together with other components of teaching and learning to bring
about the required changes in the behaviour of the learner. Classroom environment refers to all
classroom facilitates and students’ academic materials that can be used for the purpose of
teaching and learning. Learning environment can be classified into conducive or un conducive
depending on the availability and adequacy of the facilities. Conducive classroom environment
enhances teaching and learning process, it also motivates and encourages students toward
learning, and make learning exciting and interesting which in turn leads to improved academic
causing them to become less interested in the learning process. The environmental condition of a
given school influences the students’ response to circumstances, interaction with others and the
general behavior which may be positive or negative. Each environment plays a part in shaping
the development of a child academically and otherwise, this is because the child gets from his
Positive, supportive interactions between teachers and students can enhance students'
engagement and motivation. Teachers who provide encouragement, personalized feedback, and
students’achievement. This includes having a safe space where students feel valued and
respected, and where they are encouraged to participate actively. In regions like Katsina State,
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cultural norms and values can shape the interactions between students and teachers.
Understanding and integrating local cultural perspectives into teaching methods may improve
might face different challenges and have different needs. Teachers who are sensitive to these
factors and adapt their approaches accordingly can help bridge gaps in academic achievement.
Students' perceptions of their teachers and their own abilities can impact their academic success.
Building students' self-efficacy through positive reinforcement and effective teaching strategies
can lead to better academic outcomes. Ongoing training for teachers can improve their skills in
managing classroom dynamics and addressing students' psycho-social needs, which in turn can
enhance academic achievements. Collaboration between teachers and parents can create a more
supportive environment for students, both at home and in school, positively affecting academic
achievement.
The school environment is made up of all the physical and aesthetic component, as well as
location components of the environment. Onwuakpa & Akpan (2000) classified classroom
environment into three structures which are the physical, psychological and sociological
environment. According to Koroye (2016), the school physical environment consists of physical
infra structures and facilities which include school building, classrooms, furniture, equipment,
components refer to geographical location which is either termed rural(remote) or urban (city).
The physical structures can be assessed based on neatness of classrooms, condition of the doors,
roofing and ceiling, nature of furniture (seat and desk), proper ventilation, good lighting, level of
space between seat and students’ arrangement among others. Aesthetic component considers
beauty or ugly state of the school. Physiological environment according to Onwuakpa & Akpan
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(2000) includes the speed of teaching, cohesiveness, distractions, interest, motivation, anxieties,
confusion and difficulties association with classroom learning activities. The social environment
includes level of classroom interaction between the teacher and the student as well as teaching
aids.
The relationship between classroom environment and academic achievement have been
established in many studies. For example, Oluwatayo & Oyeboade (2016) examined the
students in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State. Findings of the study showed
that classroom environment was adjudged favorable by teaches and students’ performance in
biology was fairly favorable. Significant relationship between classroom environment and
Foluso, Omotayo & Olugbugi (2017) investigated the impact of selected environmental variables
Nigeria. Results of the study revealed that selected variables had an influence on students’
achievement in biology. Further findings showed that reduction in class size brought about
higher achievement in biology while there was no significant influence of laboratory on students’
achievement in biology. Ezike (2018) investigated classroom environment and academic interest
as it correlates with the achievement of senior secondary school chemistry in Ibadan South West
Local Government Area of Oyo State. Results of the study showed a high significant
relationship between classroom environment and the academic achievement as well as students’
Kekare (2015) explored classroom physical environment and academic achievement of students
using 80 students of from different colleges in Aurangabd, India as sample. Results of the study
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showed a significant difference between the classroom physical environment and academic
achievement of students. Duru & Oviasogie (2014) found a significant relationship between
learning environment and academic achievement of secondary school students in Ogun State.
Further finding revealed that private secondary school provides better learning environment than
their public schools counterpart. Abu Sayeed (2015) found that there was no significant
relationship between school environment and academic achievement in his study on the
Koroye (2016) examined the extent to which physical school environment influence students’
academic achievement in Bayelsa State. Findings of the study revealed that aesthetic beauty of
Further findings also revealed a significant influence of school equipment, instructional materials
and school location on students’ academic achievement. Odeh, Oguche, Ivagher (2015) in their
school at Zone “A” Senatorial District of Benue State discovered that school climate, discipline,
and physical facilities had a significant influence on the academic achievement of secondary
school students.
secondary school students in Markurdi District of Benue State and found a positive significant
relationship between school environment and academic achievement. Further evidence from the
study revealed a major difference in school environment between rural and urban school
environment as well as mixed school compared to a boys’ schools. Nsa, Offiong, Udo & Ikot
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agricultural science. Results of the study showed significant relationship between the availability
facilities.
Schools located in urban areas are exposed to modern facilities such as electricity transportation,
pipe borne water, computer, internet facilities and available communication network. Students in
the urban schools therefore, have the opportunities to utilize these facilities in their learning
process. These facilities are lacking in the rural schools and students are deprived of the
opportunities to utilize modern facilities in the teaching and learning process resulting poor
on student’ academic achievement in Lagos State showed that students in the rural areas tend to
perform poorly while those in the urban areas tend to perform better due to the availability of
Proper blend of available classroom resources with other rudiments of teaching contributes
concepts and also motivate students towards learning. The qualification and experience of a good
teacher can be renderedu n productive, if the classroom environment is not conducive enough to
facilitate learning. Unfortunately, the classroom environment of most Senior Secondary Schools
in Rivers Stare have been adjudged to be unconducive over the years. At the same time,
achievement of biology students’ in Senior School Certificate Examinations have been reported.
It is not clear whether the classroom environment of schools contributes to observed students’
poor academic achievement in biology in Jibiya Local government. These problems are the
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reasons why this study was carried out in order to address by investigating the Relationship
between Students and Teachers in Classroom Psycho- Social Environments and Academic
The study was carried out to examine the Relationship between Students and Teachers in
Classroom Psycho- Social Environments and Academic Achievements in Biology in Jibia Local
Local government?
3. To examine the relationship between the standard of classroom environment and biology
government?
Local government?
2. What is the standard of classroom environment in private and public Senior Secondary
3. What is the relationship between the standard of classroom environment and biology
government?
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1.6 Hypotheses
HO1 There is no significant difference in the mean responses between private and public
government
HO2 There is no significant relationship between the classroom environmental standard and
government.
HO3 There is no significant gender difference in the academic achievement of students from
government.
The results will be useful to students, teachers and even the government. Government will utilize
the information from the results of this study to properly address the present poor state of school
environment by providing basic classroom facilities required to enhance teaching and learning of
biology. Teachers stand the chance to benefit by utilizing these facilities with other components
for ease of teaching and effective lesson delivery that will accelerate the teaching process.
Students on the other hand will be exposed to conducive learning environment which enhance
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1.8 Operational Definitions of Terms
1. Relationship
A relationship describes the state of affairs existing between individuals who have connections
or dealings with one another. It can refer to various forms of interactions, including familial ties,
friendships, and romantic attachments.
2. Students
Students are the primary focus of educational systems. Their diverse backgrounds, learning
styles, and individual needs must be considered to create an effective learning environment.
Factors such as socio-economic status, cultural background, and personal experiences
significantly influence students’ academic performance and engagement levels (Eccles &
Roeser, 2011).
3. Teachers
Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience of students. Their
qualifications, teaching methods, and interpersonal skills directly impact student learning
outcomes. Effective teachers not only impart knowledge but also inspire curiosity and critical
thinking (Darling-Hammond et al., 2017).
4. Classroom
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5. Psycho-Social
Psycho-social factors encompass emotional and social aspects that affect student learning. These
include self-esteem, peer relationships, family dynamics, and mental health issues (Roeser et al.,
2000). Addressing these factors is vital for creating a conducive learning environment where
students feel safe to express themselves and take academic risks.
6. Environments
Learning environments extend beyond the physical classroom to include virtual spaces as well as
home settings. The quality of these environments can greatly influence student motivation and
achievement (Moos & Trickett, 1974). For instance, supportive home environments with parental
involvement have been linked to better academic performance among students.
7. Academic Achievements
Academic achievements refer to the measurable outcomes of education such as grades, test
scores, and graduation rates. Various factors contribute to academic success including teacher
effectiveness, student motivation, socio-economic status, and school resources (Coleman et al.,
1966). Continuous assessment practices help identify areas for improvement both for individual
students and educational institutions as a whole.
8. Biology
Biology plays an important role in understanding human behavior within educational contexts.
Biological factors such as brain development can influence cognitive functions like memory
retention and problem-solving abilities (Giedd et al., 1999).
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CHAPTER TWO
2.1. Introduction
This chapter reviewed a related literature based on the following sub-headings: Conceptual
framework of the study, Theoretical Framework of the study, Review of Related Empirical
The conceptual framework of this study covered the concept of classroom environmental
standard and students’ academic achievement, factors affecting academic performance, students’
The concept of biology the nature science that explores that structure, function, growth,
evolution, distribution, and taxonomy of living organism. From molecular biology to ecology
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2.2.2 Concept of Classroom
The concept of classroom environmental standards refers to the physical, emotional, and social
environment within a classroom that can impact students’ academic achievement. These
standards encompass factors such as classroom design, lighting, temperature, air quality, noise
levels, seating arrangements, and overall atmosphere. Research has shown that the learning
environment plays a crucial role in shaping students’ behavior, engagement, motivation, and
Owoeye (2010) Summarized that provision of education in rural areas is normally fraught with
the following difficulties and problems; qualified teachers refuse appointments in isolated
villages, villagers refuse to send their children to school because they are dependent on them for
help, parents hesitate to entrust their daughters to male teachers; some villages have few children
for an ordinary primary school; lack of road, or satisfactory means of communication makes it
difficult to get book and teaching materials to the school which place difficulties in the way of
The concept of the environment encompasses a broad range of elements that collectively
influence human life and the ecosystems in which we exist. It can be defined as the sum total of
all living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components, along with their interactions and effects
components that interact dynamically to support life on Earth while also presenting challenges
that require careful management to ensure sustainability for future generations Durowoju and
Onuka (2015)
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2.2.4 Concept of Standard
Academic standards, often referred to as content standards, are essential components of the
educational framework that define what students should know and be able to do at various grade
levels across core subjects. These standards serve as benchmarks for educational achievement
and provide a clear outline of expected learning outcomes. They encompass both skills (e.g.,
basic arithmetic) and knowledge (e.g., understanding historical events), but they do not dictate
specific teaching methods or curricula. The primary purpose of academic standards is to establish
high expectations for all students, ensuring that every learner has access to a quality education
educators aim to promote equity and excellence within the education system. The belief is that
when students are held to high expectations, they are more likely to achieve better outcomes.
Academic achievement refers to the extent to which a student, teacher, or educational institution
has attained their short-term and long-term educational goals. It encompasses various outcomes
that indicate how well students have met their learning objectives. This concept is often
assessments. These evaluations can include tests that assess procedural knowledge (skills) and
declarative knowledge (facts). However, there is no universal agreement on the best methods for
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evaluating academic achievement or which aspects are most critical. For instance, some
researchers emphasize the importance of cognitive skills measured by tests, while others
advocate for a broader approach that includes non-cognitive factors like motivation and
Merch (2012) cited that if money was spent on resources directly related to students instruction
there will be an increase on students achievement. However, if the additional fundings is spread
equally across the budgets and mostly on personnel. Also due to the sensibility of the future of
funding for Wisconsin schools; the researcher regards spending per pupil as an important factor
Ekber and Gokhan (2008) cited organization for economic co-operation and development
(DECD), that academic achievement at school is not only linked with school related factor but
According to Grant Irrggins (2012), parental income is a marker for pre-school condition and
behaviors in the home (what Millingharn calls “family investment”). The poorer the family, the
less likely the child is ready in term of schooling related enabler’s halts, vocabulary, thinking and
Hopkins (2005), cited in Merch (2012) concluded that students from large central city schools
within the highest disadvantages category had lower mathematics sub-scores than students from
large central city schools in the low moderate disadvantaged category and their other non-rural
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Self-Regulated Learning
their thoughts, emotions, behaviors and environment in order to attain academic goals (Beokeart
and Como, 2005; Zimmerman 2000). Students become self- regulated by setting goals, selecting
and using strategies, monitoring performance and repeatedly reflecting on learning outcomes
over a long period of time (Zimmerman 2008). Self-regulation operate through the areas of
psychological functioning that are essential in learning cognitive (E.g. Learning strategies),
Class Size
Aliyu (2016) cited that Adeyemi (2013) defined class size as an educational tool that can be
described as an average number of student per class in a school. He also cited Hoofman (1980)
who described class size as an average number of students per teacher in a class. Okebukola et
al. (1987) in NTI (2007) mentioned the major problems associated with large classes as follow;
Organizing, planning and presenting lesson may constitute another challenge for teacher
in large classes.
The large class also gives reluctant student a place to hide, example the back benchers in
the class.
support, social interactions, and the overall atmosphere within the classroom. A positive psycho-
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relationships between students and teachers. Research indicates that such environments foster
student engagement, motivation, and ultimately lead to improved academic performance. (Otuka
Emotional Support: Teachers who provide emotional support create a safe space for students to
express themselves. This support can manifest through encouragement, understanding individual
student needs, and being approachable. Studies have shown that when students feel supported
emotionally by their teachers, they are more likely to participate actively in class discussions and
Social Interactions: The quality of social interactions among peers also plays a vital role.
Collaborative learning environments where students work together on projects or study groups
can enhance their understanding of complex subjects like Biology. Positive peer relationships
crucial for clarifying expectations and providing feedback on academic performance. When
teachers communicate clearly about learning objectives and assessment criteria, students are
dynamics:
engagement with the subject matter. In Biology classes where teachers actively involve students
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Motivation to Learn: The motivation levels among students are often higher when they
perceive their teachers as invested in their success. This intrinsic motivation is particularly
important in challenging subjects like Biology where concepts may be abstract or difficult to
standardized test scores in Biology. For instance, research conducted within Nigerian educational
contexts has indicated that schools with nurturing teacher-student dynamics report better student
outcomes.
Cultural Context: In Jibia Local Government Area specifically, cultural factors may also
influence these relationships. Understanding local customs and values can help educators tailor
challenges such as large class sizes or inadequate training for teachers may hinder the
The theory adapted for this study is derived from the system’s theory Input-Output developed by
Luding Van Bertanlanffy (1988) which postulates that an organized enterprise does not exist in
isolation; it’s dependent on its environment in which it’s established. They add that the inputs
from the environment are received by the organization which then transform them into output
As adapted by the study, the student (input) are admitted into the school with different intelligent
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quotient, family and educational background. When they get into the school system, the school
though its resources both human and capital process such as students through the resources
variables attributed to such school. The effectiveness of such variable is measured through the
Robbins (1980) argued that organizational variables were increasingly described as absorber,
processor and organization and that the organization system could be envisioned as made up of
2.3.2 The System Theory of Weihrich (1988) (Input and Output Model)
The System Theory of Weihrich, introduced in 1988, is a framework that emphasizes the
particularly relevant in understanding how inputs are transformed into outputs through a series of
processes. The model can be broken down into several key components:
These are the resources that are required for the system to function effectively. Inputs can
include raw materials, human resources, financial capital, information, and technology. In any
organizational context, identifying and managing these inputs is crucial as they set the
foundation for what the system can achieve. Once inputs are gathered, they undergo various
processes that transform them into outputs. These processes can include manufacturing
operations, service delivery mechanisms, decision-making procedures, and other activities that
add value to the inputs. The efficiency and effectiveness of these processes directly impact the
quality and quantity of outputs produced. Outputs are the final products or services generated by
the system after processing the inputs. They represent the end result of all activities within the
system and can be measured in terms of quality, quantity, customer satisfaction, and overall
performance metrics. Outputs must align with organizational goals to ensure success.
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Recent Developments
Network Science
Systems Biology
This theory is also known as the Maslo’s Hierarchy of needs. This theory emphasized the need
for human motivation in order to bring out the best possible potentials in human efforts.
According to this theory, human is constantly preoccupied with need that must be met at a point
in time and which is responsible to gives birth to another need which are mostly insatiable in the
2.3.3.1Physiological needs
2.3.3.5 Self-actualization
This theory postulates that the satisfaction of a stage of need automatically gives rise to the next
level of need. This study derives its motivation aid as such could align it with the study in
pushing for excellence in their academic pursued variables such as school, structures, ownership,
type and location tends to motivate student in the attainment of their academic excellences.
Ezeeude and Theresa (2013), investigated the effect of gender and location on student’s
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achievements in chemistry in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu state, Nigeria. It was
guided by three research questions and three hypotheses. The sample of the study was made up
of 827 students comprising 473 males and 354 females. Eight secondary schools were sampled
The findings showed that male students achieved significantly better than the female students in
both urban and rural school. It was recommended among others the adequate incentives from
Durowoju, Onuka (2015), investigated the effect of teacher self-efficacy enhancement and
metropolis of Oyo state, Nigeria. Three hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance and
multi-stage sampling technique was adopted in the study of four local government areas (two
urban and two rural) out of the eleven local government areas council in Ibadan were randomly
selected. Sixty schools (30 in urban and 30 in rural) were randomly chosen from the local
government selected, subsequently 60 senior secondary economics teachers (30 in urban and 30
in rural) whose classes were used as intact class were involved in the study. Two instruments
namely: teachers self-efficacy enhancement scale (TSES) and economics achievement test
The reliability coefficients of the instrument were 0.79 and 0.74 respectively one treatment
package (teacher self-efficacy enhancement package) was developed and used to enhance the
self-efficacy of the teachers. Some of the findings were: teacher self- efficacy enhancement and
school location had significant main effect on student achievement in economics, while teacher
self-efficacy enhancement and school location had no significant interaction effect on student
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achievement in economics. It was recommended that teacher should be exposed to self-efficacy
enhancement program to enable them imbibe the spirit of self-efficacy in carrying out their
assignment. Furthermore, teacher should be made to understand and accept the fact that their
student can perform excellently in their academic work regardless of their school location if they
March (2012), studied and analyzed how Wisconsin rural public high school academic
achievement compared to their city suburb and town peers while controlling for ten factors. The
Wisconsin Knowledge and Concept Examination (WKCE) measured academic achievement for
tenth graders including reading, language art, mathematics, science and social studies.
The ten independent variables included geographical location, socio economic status, spending
per pupil in the school district, high school enrolment, parent education level, truancy,
disciplinary actions; suspensions and expulsions, students with disabilities and extra curriculum
activity participation. Data were provided by state federal public data bases, bindings indicated
that rural high schools in the state of Wisconsin performed as town and city high schools and in
some subject areas as well as sub urban high schools. Further, the data suggest that there are
serious academic performance concerned for student and school with certain demographics and
that those problems need to be addressed immediately and effectively. Findings from the study
suggest that the argument to consolidate rural high schools because of poor academic
performance is not a valid one. All high schools in Wisconsin including rural high schools
should be supported by policy makers and practitioners to ensure high academic achievement
Owoeye 2010, took out a research on school location and academic achievement of secondary
schools in Ekiti state, Nigeria. He looked at the location of schools as it relates to academic
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performance of student in Ekiti state of Nigeria between 1990 and 1997. The study population
was result of the West African School Certificate Examination (WASCE) conducted between
1990 and 1997 in fifty secondary schools both rural and urban areas of the state. One validated
instrument “students’ location questionnaire (SLQ)” was used for data collection. One
hypothesis was formulated and answered. Data were analyzed using mean and t-test. The result
showed that there was a significant difference between students’ academic achievement of rural
and urban secondary school in senior school certificate examinations (T=2.73 P< 0.05).
The study has proven that student in urban areas had better academic achievements than their
rural counterparts. It is recommended that government should bridge the gap between the rural
and urban locations by providing the rural dwellers the social amenities which will enhance
better academic performance of students in their final examinations like SSCE. The government
should assist the community by providing taxi and busses to facilitate the movement of teacher
and students to their schools. Adequate incentives should be provided to rural area teachers to
Omotre (2013) carried out a research on influence of school environment on the academic performance of
secondary school students in Lagos state. Factors such as school facilities, class size, school location and
school plant planning were examined to know their effect on the academic achievements of secondary
school students. Questionnaire was contracted to test the hypothesis developed. Simple percentage
statistical tool was employed to.analyse the variables. Based on the findings it was discovered that poor
school facilities, large class size, inappropriate school location, and poor school plant planning negatively
affect students’ academic performance. Recommendations were made to adjust the issues of school
learning facilities and classroom population. Educational stakeholders should encourage students in rural
schools by making available the infrastructures, equipment, materials etc. that are found in city schools.
21
Amannah, Constance, Okwelle, Wokocha and Conqueror (2014) published a journal on which they
carried out a research on influence of location and class size on academic performance of students in
public secondary schools in Rivers states, Nigeria. The study specifically sought to determine the
significance differences between rural versus urban schools and small versus large class sizes. The study
involved 399 students randomly selected, from the population of 87, 121 candidates who register and sat
for the three core subject areas namely Biology Mathematics and English language in the 2006/2007
WAEC examinations in Rivers state. The research covered 10 secondary schools of four to six ratios from
rural versus urban and small versus large class sizes respectively. The result showed that there are
significantly differences between the school location and students’ academic performance. The chi-square
statistics was used in the testing of the hypothesis. Location is a strong variable considered in the study
while class size is a stronger variable that possess an inverse in the performance of students.
Tapala, Mogomotsi and Johnson (2014) carried out a research on location and plant planning as a factors
Alphonsus (2015) carried out a meta-analysis of research findings on influence of school location on
student’s achievements in mathematics. The study integrated the collective research findings of previous
studies on the influence of location on students’ achievements in mathematics at senior secondary level.
The study covered all published and unpublished research findings on the influence of' School locations
on student’s achievements in mathematics and was limited to studies conducted from 1992–2012. One
research question and two null hypotheses guided the study. The design of the study was a meta-analysis
survey design; purposive sampling technique was used in collecting relevant studies.
2.5 Summary
In a summary, this chapter was discussed under three sub-headings: conceptual framework, theoretical
framework and related empirical study. Therefore, under conceptual framework it discussed concepts of
classroom in relation to academic performance, factors affecting academic achievement (spending per
pupil, parental socio-economic status, teachers’ qualification, self- regulated learning, and class size),
22
global overview of students’ performance and school location. It was found that Orji (2013) in Ezeudu,
Gberdy and Joshua (2014) explained that many students in the villages struggle with the challenge of
walking along distance to school. While people in urban areas convey their children to school through
vehicle and enjoy minimum traveling distances to acquire education, some people in other places suffer
Under the theoretical framework, system theory of Bertanlanffy & Weihrich (1988) (Input and Output
Model) and theory of Human Motivation was discussed. Therefore, according to theory of Bertanlanffy &
Weihrich (1988) (Input and Output Model) described that an organized enterprise does not exist in
isolation; it’s dependent on its environment in which it’s established. They add that the inputs from the
environment are received by the organization which is then transform them into output after processing
such inputs. While according to Theory of Human Motivation states that human is constantly preoccupied
with needs that must be met at a point in time and which is response giving birth to another need which is
mostly insatiable. These needs are categorized into the physiological needs, safety needs, social
However, under the review of related empirical studies, it has been revealed that Omotre (2013) carried
out a research on influence of school environment on the academic achievement of .secondary school
students in Lagos state. Factors such as school facilities, class size, school location and school plant
planning were examined to know their effects on the academic achievements of secondary school
students. Questionnaire was contracted to test the hypothesis developed. Simple percentage statistical tool
was employed to analyses the variables. Based on the findings it was discovered that poor school
facilities, large class size in appropriate school location, and poor school plant planning negatively affect
Similarly, the instrument used for this study was qualifying examination which is conducted in
collaboration with Katsina State Ministry of Education and Education Resources center. The uniqueness
23
24
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter examined the methodology used in conducting the study. This chapter is presented under the
following sub-headings: Research design, population of the study, sample and sampling techniques,
research instrument, validity of the instruments, pilot testing for reliability of the instrument, procedure
The research design for the study is a descriptive research method. This is because the research involves
gathering of information about large number of students and studying only a representative sample of the
entire population of the students. Data for the research was collected through check list. It was used in
finding out the meaning and obtaining an understanding of the present condition. It was then subjected to
statistical analysis.
The population of the study comprises the entire SS1, SSII, and III students of the secondary schools in
Jibiya Local government Area of Katsina State. There are twelve (12) Secondary schools in Katsina
metropolis with a total population of eight thousand nine hundred and fifty (8,950) students can be seen
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Table 3.1 Population of the Study
TOTAL 8,950
Sampling refers to the technique of taking a portion of a population as a representative of that population.
Sampling is done when the researcher want to generalize the findings of his research to the entire parent
population. For an accurate and precise sampling, the researcher has chosen simple random sampling. The
research adopted simple random technique in which two (2) schools were randomly selected for each
location (Advantaged and Disadvantaged location). Therefore, four (4) schools were selected from the
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twelve (12)' secondary schools in Jibiya Local government and they have a total population of two
thousand four hundred and eighteen (2,418) students the sample size using Morgan and Krejcie table is
33.1. Therefore, 331 students were served as the sampled size and this can be seen in table 3.2 below:
Total 331
3.5 Instrumentation
The instrument to be used for the study is qualifying examination (QE) which is conducted in
collaboration with Katsina State Ministry of Education and Education Resources center. The exam is
conducted to asses students that will qualify for SSSCE, WAEC and NECO. It was established in the year
The reliability of the instrument has also been established, the instrument is a standard instrument.
Scoring Type/Procedure
A=5
B=4
C=3
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D=2
E=l
F=0
Absent = 0
The Data was collected for the study from Educational Resources Centre (ERC) Katsina, by issuing an
introduction letter which had been signed and stamped by Examination Officer. Due processes were
followed in the collection of the data which made the researcher to attend the Resources Centre for
Both Descriptive and Inferential Statistics will be used for data analysis thus: Descriptive Statistics
(Analysis) Mean and Standard Deviation was used to answer the three (3) research questions. Inferential
Statistics (Analysis) Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMCC) was used to test
hypothesis 1 while T- test independent sample was used to test hypotheses 2 and 3.
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CHAPTER FOUR
4.1. Introduction
This chapter is discussed under three sub-headings; Data Presentation/Analysis, Summary of major
HO1: There is no significant difference in the mean responses between private and public
government
Table 4.1 Inferential Analysis for School Location, Classroom and Academic Performance
The reliability coefficient (R) value at 95% level, of confidence (0.05 level of probability) is
0.533. There is no significant difference in the mean responses between private and public
Therefore the hypothesis is rejected. This shows that table 4.1 answers the research question one
which ask what is the relationship between classroom and the academic performance of students
in Biology among senior secondary schools of Jibya Local Government. And on the other hand,
a total number of students registered for the same examination in the sampled schools of
disadvantaged schools location and classroom, but only few students were able to qualify for
29
the S.S.C.E. This is a clear indication that the better classroom, the better the performance of the
students
HO2: There is no significant relationship between the classroom environmental standard and students’
The p value at 95% level of confidence (0.05 level of probability) and degree of freedom of 366 is 0.00.
Therefore, the null hypothesis is rejected on the ground that p value (0.00) is less than 0.05. There is no
significant relationship between the classroom environmental standard and students’ academic
achievement in senior secondary school biology in Jibiya Local government. And this indicates that table
4.2 answers the research question two which ask “what is the difference in the Biology academic
achievement of students from differ SS school locations in Jibiya Local Government ? Hence, the
difference between the advantaged and disadvantaged school is in favor of the advantaged schools, which
signifies there is difference in academic achievement between the advantaged and disadvantaged schools
students’ academic achievement in Biology among senior secondary schools of Jibya local government,
30
4.2.3 Research Hypothesis III
HO3: There is no significant gender difference in the academic achievement of students from
government.
Table 4.3 Inferential Analysis for Male and Female from Advantaged in Classroom
The p value at 95% level of confidence (0.05 level of probability) and degree of freedom of 366
is 0.544. Therefore, the null hypothesis is accepted on the ground that p value (0.544) is greater
than 0.05. Therefore, There is no significant gender difference in the academic performance of
students from advantaged Classroom in biology among senior secondary school of Jibiya Local
government. This revealed that table 4.3 answers the research question three which asked “is
there any significance gender difference in the academic achievement of students from
advantaged schools location in biology among senior secondary schools of Jibiya Local
government. ?. Hence, the difference between male and female students from advantaged school
location is in favour of the Male students, therefore the difference is negligible which signifies
there is no difference in academic achievement between male and female students from
advantaged schools locations among senior secondary school of Jibiya Local government.
Evidence from results of this study showed that classroom environment of senior secondary
schools in Jibiya Local government was unconducive. Basic classroom facilities for teaching and
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learning such as number of students per seat, space between desk, number of students per seat,
laboratories, computers, charts, laboratory facilities and toilet facilities were very inadequate.
Results of this study agrees with the findings of Oluwatayo & Oyeboade (2016) where classroom
environment between private and public Senior Secondary Schools. Private schools had better
classroom environment than public schools. The results of this study provide evidence to the
claim of Duru & Oviasogie (2014) that private secondary school provides better learning
environment than public schools. Better classroom environment in private school could possibly
be responsible for the better achievement in examinations compared to the government schools.
There was a significant difference in classroom environment between urban and rural Senior
Secondary Schools (Table1). Urban schools had better classroom environment than rural
schools. The finding of this study agrees with results of Anbalagan, (2017) who found a
significant difference in school environment between some Senior Secondary School students in
biology in Jibiya and further lends credence to the claim of Olasunksnmi (2007) that students in
the rural areas tend to perform poorly while those in urban areas tend to perform better due to the
learning facilities. This is in marked contrast to the rural schools where these facilities are
lacking.
The study also found a significant relationship between learning environment and students’
academic achievement secondary school biology (Table 2). The outcome of this study
corroborates the findings of Oluwatayo & Oyeboade (2016), Eike (2018) and Anbalagan (2017)
where significant relationship between classroom environment and achievement in biology was
32
established in their independent studies on a classroom environment and achievement of
respectively. The result is also in agreement with findings of studies on school learning
environment and students’ academic achievement by Kekare (2015) who found a positive
their study to explore the impact of school environment on academic achievement of secondary
school students. Table 4.3 presented the p value at 95% level of confidence (0.05 level of
probability.) and degree of freedom of 366 is 0.544. The null hypothesis is accepted on the
ground that p value (0.544) is greater than 0.05. Therefore, there is no significant gender
difference in the Biology academic achievement of students from advantaged school and
Classroom among senior secondary schools in Jibya Local Government. The result of this
finding is in agreement with that of Fasiku (2011) in his comparison of the knowledge of male
and female teachers in social studies, concluded that male social studies teachers were very vast
in the knowledge of environmental education than female social studies teachers. Gin (2011)
observed that in contemporary context, men and women classification is a world where
patriarchal values predominate, it is a world where there are general sets of beliefs that women
are inferior to men and therefore, the power relations attached to their ideas, and beliefs, give
men more power, more opportunities and more conscientious over and above women in the
society. And also the result of this finding is in agreement with that of Nwona (2013), Gocer
(2010), Kermal (2008), Zember and Blume (2011), Abubakar and Oguguo (2011), Dayioglu and
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CHAPTER FIVE
5.1 Introduction
This chapter presents the summary, conclusion and recommendations of the study.
5.2. Summary
Chapter one presented the background, statement of the problem, objectives of the study among others. In
chapter two, literature related to this study were reviewed under the following sub headings; concepts of
spending per pupil, parental socio-economic status, teachers’ qualification, self-regulated learning, class
size, students’ academic achievement of Biology in relation to gender, global overview of students’
achievement and school location, theoretical framework, review of related empirical study, summary and
uniqueness of the study. Based on the review of related literature, concepts of school location in relation
to academic achievement, factors affecting academic achievement formed part of conceptual framework,
It was found that studies of Frederick (2011) in Ezeudu, Gberdy and Joshua (2014) stated that school
location as one of the major factors that influence students’ academic achievement in some subject areas.
As such Frederick added that many parents look at factor such as the location of schools (urban Or rural)
and the distance to the school before enrolling their wards. Orji (2013) in Ezeudu, Gberdy and Joshua
(2014) explained that many students in the inter villages struggle with the challenge of walking long
distances to schools. They explained that the implication is that while people in urban areas convey their
children to schools through vehicles and enjoy minimum traveling distances to acquire education, some
people in other places suffer by having to cover maximum distances to get to their schools.
Chapter three presented the methodology of the study under the following sub-headings: research design;
population of the study; sample and sampling procedure: research instrument; validity of the instruments;
34
reliability of the instruments; data collection procedure and data analysis procedure. This study used
descriptive research design and instrument used was qualifying examination which is conducted in
collaboration with Katsina State Ministry of Education and Education Resources center.
The target population for this study was senior secondary school, students in public secondary schools
located within Jibya Local government. According to Education Resource Center (ERC) Katsina State
(2021) there was a total eight thousand nine hundred and forty eight (8,948) SSII students who registered
The sample of the study was drawn from the four randomly selected schools by approximating the total
population of 8, 948 to the nearest thousand which is 9000 and referring to Morgan and Krecie table to
obtain 368 as sample size of the study. This study utilized one research instrument namely: qualifying
examination. The exam is conducted to asses students that will qualified for SSSCE, WAEC and NECO.
Descriptive Statistics (Analysis) i.e. Mean and Standard Deviation were used to answer the three (3)
research questions. Inferential Statistics (Analysis) i.e. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient
(PPMCC) was used to test hypothesis 1 while T-test independent sample was used to test hypothesis 2
and 3.
Chapter four presented the result analysis, interpretation and discussions of findings. From the result
obtained.
5.3 Conclusion
The results of the study showed that classroom environment of Senior Secondary Schools in
Jibya local government is unconducive with inadequate basic facilities. There was a significant
difference in classroom environment between private and public as well as rural and urban
Senior Secondary Schools in Jibya local government. Private schools had better classroom
environment than public schools and urban schools had better classroom environment than the
35
rural schools. Finally, there was Significant relationship between learning environment and
5.4 Recommendations
accommodate writing desk and leave gap for the teacher to walk round the class for
assessment
2. Maximum of twenty-five students per classroom should be maintained and the students
3. Adequate instructional materials should be provided to enhance the teaching and learning
process.
36
References
Koroye , T. (2016). The influence of school physical environment on secondary school, students’
academic performance in Bayelsa State. African Journal of Educational Research, 2 (4),
1-5.
37
Nsa, S.O., Offiong, A.A., Udo, M.F., & Ikot, A. S. (2014). School environmental variables and
students’ academic performance in agricultural science. International Journal of
Business and Social Science, 5(8), 163-167.
Odeh, R. C., Oguche, O., Ivagher, E. D. (2015). Influence of school environment on academic
achievement of student sin secondary schools in Zone “A” Senatorial District of Benue
State Nigeria. International Journal of Recent Scientific Research, 6(7), 4914-4922.
Olasunksnmi F. (2007). Effect of urban and rural environment on the academic performance of
students in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State. University of Calabar: An
unpublished B. A (Ed) project,
Onwuakpa, F. W. & Akpan, B.B. (2000). A study of secondary school students’ classroom
environment in relation to their mathematics achievement. Journal of Science Teachers
Association of Nigeria, 35(1&2), 55-62.
38
APPENDIX I
QUESTIONNAIRE
Dear Respondents,
We final year students from Federal College of Education, Katsina, carrying out a research on
“RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STUDENTS AND TEACHERS IN CLASSROOM
PSYCHO- SOCIAL ENVIRONMENTS AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS IN
BIOLOGY IN JIBIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KATSINA STATE”. The
information obtained will be treated with the strictest confidentiality and will be used solely for
this research purposes only. I would like to thank you in assisting me in this research.
2. Age ………………………………
3. Gender: F[ ] M[ ]
6. For how long have you been teaching the subject ……………………..
(a) NCE [ ] (b) BSC [ ] (c) BSC/ED (d) M.SC [ ] (e) Other (specify) …………
39
INSTRUCTION: For each of the statement please tick the column that best indicates your level
of agreement (SA= strongly agreed, A= agreed, D= disagreed, SD= strongly disagreed and U=
Undecided).
S/NO Statement Response
SA A U D SD
1. Higher qualified teacher are required to teach Biology in
secondary school level.
2. Qualification of Biology teacher count in terms of students’
academic achievement.
3. Attending of seminars and workshops by Biology teacher’s
makes teaching and learning of biology better.
4. Teachers registered with teachers registration council achieve
better in the teaching of secondary school students.
5. Experience of a teacher influences student’s academic
achievement.
6. Students achievement better in Biology when taught by well
experienced teacher.
7. Training makes teachers to become experienced teachers
8. Students academic achievement better in Biology when taught by
well experienced teacher.
9. There is difference in biology academic achievement between
those taught by biology teachers with higher qualifications and
those taught by biology teachers with lower academic
achievement.
10. There is difference in biology academic achievement among
senior secondary school students taught by long time
experienced biology teachers and those taught by short time
experienced biology teachers.
11. Differences exist in biology academic achievement of students
taught by professional teachers and those taught by non-
professional teachers.
40