FACTORS THAT INFLUECE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF THE FIRST YEAR STUDENTS

ABSTRACT

This study determined the factors influencing the academic performance of first year students in the Department of Vocational and Technical Education, University of Benin. Four research questions were raised to guide the study. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The population of this study consisted of 207 first year Vocational and Technical Education students, University of Benin. The sample size of this study was made up of 42 first year Vocational and Technical Education students. The proportional sampling techniques was used to select 20% from each course areas which gave a total of 42 students. The instrument used for data collection for this study was a structured questionnaire titled Factors Influencing Academic Performance of the First Year Students (FIAPFYS). It was however subjected to face validity by the researcher’s supervisor and two other experts in the Department of Vocational and Technical Education. The data collected from the administered questionnaire was analyzed using mean and standard deviation (SD). The findings of the study revealed that lecturer method of teaching influence the academic performance of students; student selfmotivation and interest in a course influence students’ academic performance; family support and background as well as late admission influence the academic performance of students to a high extent. It was concluded that several factors influenced the academic performance of first year students. It was recommended among others that lecturers should be motivated with relevant bonuses as well as payment of salary on time, Schools should processed and release their admission list on time before resumption.