AN EMPIRICAL SURVEY ON FACTORS INFLUENCING STUDENTS’ SUBJECT SELECTION AT SECONDARY SCHOOL LEVEL IN AKURE NIGERIA

Abstract

The selection of subjects at secondary school level is the first and foremost step that might lead students to get desired higher education and achieve successful destination. This empirical study was conducted to explore potential factors affecting students’ subject selection at secondary school level in Akure, Nigeria. In order to achieve this, real data set for the study was collected from 200 respondents which comprises of 100 students, 50 teachers of Federal University of Technology Staff Secondary School, Akure, Nigeria and 50 parents within the University’s environment with the aid of well- structured survey questionnaires. The analyses were carried out using suitable statistical software. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied to analyze the data. The empirical study revealed that students' subject choices were influenced by factors such as their potential, prior knowledge, parents' profession, and financial status. The study also revealed that students tend to select subjects that are easy, interesting, or aligned with teaching methods they find appealing, while parents and teachers guide them toward subjects important for future careers and job security. Recommendations were made for students, teachers, and parents to help with subject selection that meets the demands of the twenty first century.