Study Habits and Academic Performance of Basic School Learners of Atwima-Nwabiagya District of Ashanti Region, Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate study habits and academic performance of basic school learners. The design used was descriptive survey. The accessible population was 3,150 learners, made up of 1,514 boys and 1,636 girls. The sample was 355 basic eight learners of the schools. Computer random number method of proportionate simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample, which was made up of 171 boys and 184 girls. Questionnaire with a generated reliability coefficient of 0.827 was the instrument used. Both primary and secondary data were used. Means, standard deviations and linear multiple regression analysis were used to analyse the data. The study revealed that learners do not study at least for three hours each day after classes and also, they do not attend extra classes. Again, learners' parents do not help them in managing their private time to study at home. Learners' study habit contributes 64.1 percent significantly to their academic performance. It is, therefore, recommended that headteachers and teachers of basic schools should ensure that learners develop and maintain positive attitude towards learning and that they will make use of appropriate study habits in the school. Parents should also help learners to manage their private time judiciously and effectively in studying to boost their academic performance.