Exploring Post-Basic Education Students' Preference for Algebra and Geometry Topics in Lagos State

Abstract

The study examined students’ preference of Algebra and Geometry at Post-Basic Education level in Kosofe Local Government Area, Lagos State. Four research questions and two hypotheses were raised to guide the study. Two hundred PostBasic Education students drawn from two senior secondary schools using simple random sampling technique were used for the study. Students responded to a 
standardized Algebra and Geometry Topical Inventory which served as instrument for data collection in the study. The instrument was validated by three professionals and yielded a reliability of 0.80 and 0.90 by Cronbach’s alpha analysis. Frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and independent t-test were used to analyze data. Findings revealed Algebraic fractions and Cosine rule as most preferred topics under Algebra and Geometry respectively while Change of subject of formula and Coordinate geometry, proof of theorems and chord property were observed to be least preferred in these branches of mathematics. Test of hypotheses indicated that male students significantly preferred topics in both Algebra and Geometry than female students. It was therefore recommended that gender responsive pedagogy and text writing at the Post-Basic Education level should be included in Mathematics curriculum. In addition, students’ interest, particularly female students, in Algebra and Geometry at Post-Basic Education level should be improved through academic and career talks.