Assessing the Effect of Parental Support on Students' Mathematics Achievement in Primary and Junior Secondary Schools in Kailahun District, Sierra Leone: A Cross-Sectional Study
Keywords:
parental support; mathematics achievement; homework supervision; home learning resources; parent–teacher communication; Sierra Leone.Abstract
Mathematics achievement remains a significant concern in many developing countries despite substantial investments in educational reform. In Sierra Leone, persistent low performance in mathematics, particularly in rural communities, has raised concerns regarding the role of family involvement in supporting learners' academic success. This study examined the effect of parental support on students' mathematics achievement in primary and junior secondary schools in Kailahun District, Sierra Leone. Specifically, the study investigated the influence of homework supervision, parents' educational attainment, home learning resources, parental motivation and encouragement, and parent–teacher communication on students' mathematics performance. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed. Data were collected from pupils, junior secondary school students, mathematics teachers, head teachers, and parents using structured questionnaires and students' mathematics achievement records. Descriptive statistics, Pearson Product–Moment Correlation, and Multiple Linear Regression analyses were performed using SPSS Version 26. The findings revealed that all dimensions of parental support were positively associated with mathematics achievement. Parental motivation and encouragement and the availability of home learning resources emerged as the strongest predictors of students' mathematics performance, while homework supervision and effective parent–teacher communication also contributed significantly to improved learning outcomes. Although parents' educational attainment had a positive effect, its influence was comparatively smaller after controlling for other variables. The study concludes that strengthening parental involvement is essential for improving mathematics achievement in rural schools. It recommends promoting parent education programmes, improving home learning resources, strengthening school–family partnerships, and developing policies that encourage active parental engagement in children's education.
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