Attributions for low achievement

Abstract

Literature frequently shows that the main causes for low achievement are associated with the home and personality characteristics of the child. The learning environment at school may also contribute to its further development. The main rationale behind this research is to investigate why some pupils, in a primary state school, do not achieve at school. This, in spite of all the investment being put in education. To obtain a global picture of this phenomenon, twenty-two low streamed year five pupils, together with their classroom teachers and parents were interviewed. Qualitative research approaches are used. The sample of the children was identified with the help of the school head teacher and classroom teachers. Structured and unstructured interviews with the identified sample of pupils (13 boys, 9 girls), teachers (4 female, 1 male) and parents (10 female) were carried out. Through these interviews the dimensions and reasons involved in the pupils' low achievement were analysed and discussed.