Difficulties in Mathematics: Its Implication to the Academic Performance of Grade 12 ABM Students SY: 2018-2019

Abstract

The focus of this study is to discuss the difficulties in learning Mathematics and to find out the mathematics skills and cognitive abilities needed to solve them. The study is carried out on three focused group samples that are selected through purposeful sampling. Apart from the questionnaires given, Mathematics problems are really difficult. Students seem to be struggling with their homework. Mathematics is not a topic but a process that underlies the whole Mathematics programs which contextually help them learn the concepts and skills. Many mathematics skills involve problem-solving; however, large numbers of students have not acquired the basic skills they need in Mathematics. As a result, many students are reported to face difficulties in Mathematics, particularly in mathematics academics. If the teaching and learning process is not equally effective for all students, the difficulties in acquiring mathematics skills by the students could worsen. Understanding students’ difficulties in Mathematics skills needed in problem-solving is one way to assist these students. A qualitative method is used in the study. Using descriptive research design, it focuses on the assessment of grade 12 Accountancy, Business and Management students’ difficulties in Mathematics: Its implication to their academic performance. There are academic variables to identify the difficulties in learning Mathematics such as Accounting, Business Math, Business Finance, and so on. Data are collected by distributing a questionnaire to the 50 selected grade 12 ABM students. The result of the study reveals the following difficulties in Mathematics. (1) Quizzes-Many students agreed that they can rationalize the mathematical equation. (2) Analyzation-Some students can easily interpret a mathematical equation. (3) Time Frame-Many students agreed that they need more time to answer the mathematical problem. The results demonstrate that if the students have more time analyzing mathematical problems, they will not suffer anymore and they will have more time for themselves.