Analysis of Academic Achievement of Business Studies Students Taught by Subject Specialist and Those Taught By Non-Specialist in Secondary Schools in Gadabuke Metropolis

Abstract

This study examined the academic achievement of business studies students taught by subject specialist and those taught by non-specialist in selected Junior Secondary Schools Examination in Gadabuke metropolis in Toto Local Government of Nasarawa state.  The study had three objectives, three research questions and three null hypotheses.  Developmental research design was adopted in the study. JSCE business studies results for the year 2012/2013 for 257 students was the raw data for the study.  Descriptive statistics of means was used to answer the research questions while t-test statistical tool was used in analyzing the data in the test of null hypotheses. The analysis of data was presented according to the specific research questions and hypothesis.  All the null hypotheses were tested at significant level of 0.05. The results of the study indicated among others that students taught by specialist in business studies appeared to be more skillful in problem such as shorthand and book keeping.  One of the recommendations made was that principals and heads of departments in secondary schools should imbibe the culture of making subject allocation based on teacher’s area of specialization.  This seeks to improve teachers’ methodology, skills, efficiency and attitude in the classroom.