Socio-Cultural Factors That Influence Girls’ Participation In Mathematics In Secondary Schools In The Oshana Education Region.

ABSTRACT

This study sought to find out how socio-cultural factors (traditions, culture, norms and beliefs) influenced the girls’ participation in Mathematics in the Oshana Education Region. The study addressed the following questions: What are the perceptions of girls toward Mathematics learning in the Oshana education region? What influences do parents and teachers have on girls taking Mathematics as an area of study at high school in the Oshana education region as perceived by girls? What cultural/traditional norms do the girls perceive to hinder their participation in studying Mathematics in the Oshana education region? What beliefs do girls hold about Mathematics in the Oshana education region? Literature has demonstrated the importance of self-concept, motivation and influence from parents and teachers as imperative factors for a change in girls’ perceptions of Mathematics.