UNRAVELLING THE CHALLENGES: FACTORS AFFECTING JUNIOR HIGH

SCHOOL STUDENT’S STRUGGLES IN STUDYING SCIENCE SUBJECTS

Introduction:

This study examines why some middle school students struggle to learn science. It wants

to understand all the problems they face and why these problems happen. By doing this, it hopes

to find ways to make science more manageable and enjoyable for these students. This research

can help teachers, parents, and others to help these students do better in their science classes.

Students' mental health is becoming increasingly important because it directly influences

their academic success. There is a notable trend in research to understand how stress, anxiety,

and other mental health issues affect a student's ability to excel in science. Teachers play a vital

role in addressing students' struggles in science subjects. Ongoing professional development

programs for educators are concentrating on equipping them with the most effective teaching

practices and pedagogical techniques to enhance the accessibility and engagement of science

education.

Engaging parents and the broader community in science education can significantly

enhance students' success. An emerging trend in education research focuses on identifying

effective methods for involving parents and the local community in science education.

Furthermore, encouraging more girls to pursue science subjects and breaking gender stereotypes

is an ongoing concern. Research is actively addressing the factors that influence gender equity in

science education and is developing strategies to address these disparities.

 Many junior high school students face challenges regarding their science subjects. One

primary reason for this struggle is that they often find these subjects uninteresting and irrelevant.

The lack of interest can be attributed to uninspiring teaching methods, outdated curricula, or the

failure to bridge science concepts with real-world applications. Additionally, the quality of

science teachers plays a pivotal role in students' success. When teachers are under-trained or

unmotivated, they may need help to properly communicate complex scientific ideas or change

their teaching approaches to meet the different learning requirements of their students.

Also, students' mental health and well-being are critical factors that significantly

influence their ability to study science. Anxiety, stress, and other mental health concerns might

impair their concentration and motivation in class. Lastly, the level of parental involvement and

support can exert a profound impact on a student's success in science subjects. While some

students may lack the necessary support at home, others may benefit from active engagement

and support from their parents in their educational journey.

This research project aims to accomplish several important objectives. First and

foremost, it seeks to provide valuable recommendations for educators, parents, and policymakers

to address and alleviate the challenges junior high school students face in science education. By

identifying effective strategies and interventions, this research empowers these critical

stakeholders with the tools to support students effectively.

Furthermore, this study strives to delve into the perspectives and experiences of junior

high school students as they navigate their struggles in science education. By understanding

their unique challenges, it can offer insights that contribute to the improvement of science

education for these young learners. A significant aspect of this research is the exploration of the

psychological and emotional factors that play a role in students' difficulties with science
education. By identifying these underlying issues, we can better tailor interventions to address

the root causes of their struggles.

Additionally, the research aims to identify and describe junior high school students' key

challenges and difficulties when studying science subjects. Understanding their obstacles is vital

for developing effective and targeted solutions. Ultimately, this study aspires to bridge the gap

between students' challenges and the strategies needed to help them overcome these obstacles in

pursuing scientific knowledge.

This research holds significant potential to drive positive changes in science education.

Firstly, it can pave the way for enhanced educational practices. The findings of this study have

the power to enlighten educators about the specific challenges students encounter in their science

education journey. With this knowledge, educators can develop more effective teaching methods

and strategies, ultimately creating a more engaging and enriching learning experience for

students.

Moreover, the research can foster greater mental health awareness in education. By

delving into the psychological and emotional factors affecting students' struggles in science, this

study can bring to the forefront the vital role that mental well-being plays in learning. This may

lead schools to improve their mental health support systems, ensuring that students are not only

academically equipped but also emotionally supported.

Additionally, this research can underscore the significance of parental involvement in

their children's science education. The study encourages parents to take a more active role in

their child's educational journey by highlighting the benefits of home-school solid collaboration

building a supporting network that improves kids' educational experience.

Statement of the Problem:

The problem addressed in the study "Unraveling the Challenges: Factors Affecting Junior

High School Students' Struggles in Studying Science Subjects" is the persistent difficulties and

struggles experienced by junior high school students when learning science subjects. These

difficulties manifest as lower academic performance and a lack of interest or confidence in

science-related matters. To effectively address this issue, it is critical to identify and

comprehend the precise aspects leading to these challenges and to study their underlying causes.

This study aims to provide answers to the following essential questions:

1. What are the primary factors contributing to junior high school students' poor academic

performance in science subjects, and how do these factors manifest in their learning

outcomes?

2. What psychological factors contribute to junior high school students' struggles with

science subjects, including self-confidence, self-efficacy, and anxiety, and how do these

factors impact their motivation and persistence in science education?

3. What are the peer and social influences affecting students' attitudes and efforts towards

science subjects in the junior high school environment, and how do these factors shape

students' academic performance in these subjects?

4. How do junior high school students' levels of interest and engagement in science subjects

compare to their enthusiasm for other academic disciplines, and what underlying factors

influence these disparities?