Improving Grade VII Students’ Mathematics performance through Cooperative Learning Strategy: An Action Research
Abstract
The study examined the effectiveness of using cooperative learning strategy on seventh grade students’ learning achievement in mathematics and their satisfaction level towards the subject. The study employed a quantitative approach involving experimental research design where cooperative learning was the independent variable while students’ test scores and attitude towards mathematics were the dependent variables. The subjects of the study were 28 students comprising 14 boys and 14 girls respectively. Data were analyzed by calculating means, standard deviations and paired samples t-test. The results revealed a mean score of 44.6 in pre-test and 59.2 in the post-test, with a mean difference 14.6 and the significant value (p) obtained was .000. The findings indicated higher scores in the post-test, vis-a-vis the pre-test of all 28 research participants. Moreover, the students’ satisfaction level analysis indicated that their attitude towards mathematics improved as shown by the increase in the level of interest, understanding and satisfaction in the subject. Therefore, it is recommended that teachers may use cooperative learning strategy to improve students’ academic performance, social interaction skills and foster meta-cognition in students.