Practices and Challenges of Active Learning Methods in Mathematics Classes of Upper Primary Schools

The purposes of this study were to explore the nature of the teaching-learning process in line with active learning methods (ALMs) and to identify the major challenges hindering the implementation of these approaches in mathematics classes of upper primary schools. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection were employed. Random sampling technique for students and availability sampling technique for teachers were used. 25 mathematics teachers and 710 students were involved in the study. Questionnaires, lesson observation, and focus groups discussion were the data gathering instruments used. The quantitative data obtained were analyzed using frequency, percentages & mean values. The qualitative data were analyzed by narrating the information obtained from the data. Questioning method, group work, gap lecture, cooperative learning, and individual work were the methods used commonly by the teachers. Large class size; the amount of content to be covered; lack of instructional materials; lack of administrative support; and that it took too much effort from teachers are main challenges that hinder the application of ALMs in the classrooms. Based on the findings, different recommendations are forwarded to address those problems and to improve the use of ALMs in mathematics in the study area. Keywords: Active learning, challenges of active learning, mathematics, student centered DOI: 10.7176/JEP/11-13-04 Publication date: May 31 st 2020