Perceived Effects of Single Parenting in the School Performance of Grade Six Pupils in Lian Central School: Basis for a Proposed Action Plan

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

There are various types of disruptions that influence pupils' performance in school thus; development of different intervention plans becomes imperative. The majority of these plans focus on enhancing the learning deficits of common learners. This study focused on identifying the barriers to the school performance of pupils from single-parent homes and how to take necessary actions to break these barriers for effective learning to happen. It dealt with the necessity for teachers to partake a certain role to remediate pupils from single-parent homes experiencing academic difficulties.

METHODS

This study made use of the descriptive method to determine the perception of the selected thirty-five (35) grade six pupils living with a solo parent on the effects of single parenting with regards to their school performance, participation in school activities as well as their socialization and school discipline. Frequency and percentage were utilized for the profile of the respondents while weighted mean and ranking were used to determine the perceived effects of single parenting in the school performance of the selected respondents.

RESULTS

Most of the respondents moderately agreed on the impact of single parenting as to achievement, participation in school activities and school discipline. As to achievement, some children were moderately affected by their family status which led them to poor school performance. In terms of participation in school activities, pupils still managed to join school activities. The result signified that these pupils were still supported by their parents financially and morally. As per school discipline, it revealed that pupils need attention and affection which first come from a home to detach themselves from delinquent acts.

DISCUSSIONS

The results demonstrate that teachers need an effective action plan for pupils from single-parent homes to bridge the gap in their school performance. Although the study showed minimal impacts of single parenting among pupils, schools must continue its program for children from single-parent homes or may adopt programs that will help these children overcome their problems and improve their school performance.