Learning Difficulties of Students in Mathematics

Abstract: This study determined the level of learning difficulties in Mathematics of the Grade 7 learners in a public secondary school, in a small-sized division, in southern Negros for the school year 2023-2024 as the basis for an intervention plan. The descriptive research design was used in this study with which data was gathered from 170 Grade 7 learner-respondents utilizing a researcher-made questionnaire that has passed extensive tests of validity and reliability. The questionnaire gathered the profile of the students – sex, distance from home to school, parents’ highest educational attainment, and average family monthly income, and focused on 4 major variables which are Content Knowledge, Learning Environment, Teaching Strategies, and Parental Support. This study revealed that the Grade 7 learners face moderate difficulties in Mathematics across different areas. They encounter moderate challenges in understanding mathematical content, navigating the learning environment, and adapting to various teaching strategies. However, seeking parental support for mathematical studies appears to be particularly challenging, with students reporting high levels of difficulty in this aspect. These findings seeks the attention of parents to be more engaged in the learning process of students, especially those with lower educational attainment and income levels. Workshops, seminars, and informational sessions can be organized to educate parents on the importance of their involvement in their child's mathematical education and provide them with strategies to support learning at home. Keywords: Difficulties, learning, mathematics, students