IMPACT OF USING SCIENTIFIC CALCULATORS IN MATHEMATICS INSTRUCTION ON STUDENTS ACHIEVEMENT IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN EMBU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Mathematics surrounds everyone and as such it is universal part of human culture.  Mathematics is used throughout the world as an essential tool in many fields such as commerce, engineering and other sciences. Due to its importance and use in the learning of other subjects and its application in industry and real life situations, mathematics is compulsory for all students in Kenya and as such performance in mathematics is of concern to everybody. Use of scientific calculators was introduced in secondary schools in the year 2005 and the calculators were to be used from form three level. However, its influence on students’ achievement in mathematics has not been established. The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of using scientific calculators in teaching and learning mathematics on students’ achievement in mathematics in secondary schools in Embu County. The study sought to determine whether there was a difference in achievement in mathematics when students used calculators in assessment. The study employed the descriptive survey research design. The research was carried out in nine secondary schools in Embu County. The subjects were form three students and stratified random sampling technique was used to draw the participating schools. The sample size was 370 students. The research instrument used was the Mathematics Achievement Test. The raw data obtained were scored, coded and analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics involving t-test. The hypothesis was tested at α =0.05 level of significance. From the study there was evidence that there was no significant difference in achievement in mathematics when calculators were used and when they were not used by students. The findings provide guidance in calculator use to instructors and policy makers who are undertaking the quest to improve students’ achievement. The findings also may help the curriculum specialists who are responsible for selection of curriculum materials on how calculators affect the curriculum.