An investigation into the prevalence and nature of boredom in Grade 10 Mathematics classrooms : a case study

Abstract

This research report focuses on an investigation into the prevalence and nature of boredom in Grade 10 Mathematics classrooms in the Grahamstown region, South Africa. Boredom seems to be strongly evident in our classrooms. Quantitative data was derived from an initial survey questionnaire while semi-structured interviews were used to elicit qualitative data. The data from the survey was analysed quantitatively using descriptive statistics. The quantitative data was categorised according to the structure of the survey. The data was represented in bar graphs and then discussed accordingly. In the final narrative I infused extracts from the interviews with my quantitative analysis. The qualitative data was analysed and coded according to different categories and themes that emerged through repeated engagement with the interview transcripts. The findings revealed that boredom is a common problem in the 8 Grade 10 Mathematics schools in the Grahamstown region and this finding answered my first research question. To answer my second research question, the results showed that learners were bored due to many factors, such as; lack of understanding, repetition and the teacher's actions and many more. My findings align with what is highlighted by Nett, Goetz, & Hall. (2011) that many learners from particularly the senior secondary schools frequently report episodes of boredom. The study recommends that teachers make their teaching more interesting, much use of concrete teaching materials and make mathematics tasks to be relevant and real.