I cannot believe it's not geography ! : a comparative study of students' perceptions of geography in different secondary schools

Abstract

The subject of geography provides many benefits for Secondary School students. It contributes to both intrinsic and extrinsic values. The way in which a geography lesson is presented in the classroom plays a vital role in determining students' perception of geography. However, there are other factors, namely the relevance of geography to students' life and career and parental influence, that are important too. Moreover, school's logistics also play an important part in influencing students' perception of geography. The students' questionnaire conducted in Maltese Girls Junior Lyceums and Area Secondary Schools revealed that children show a high degree of interest in geography. Yet, it resulted that very few students chose it as an optional subject. Hence, it could be assumed that both students' interest towards geography and their choice of the subject as an optional, could be attributed to the way students perceive the subject of geography. This dissertation is our attempt to analyse factors that affect students' interest towards geography and their choice of geography for future studies. It also proposes some measures aimed at fostering a more positive attitude towards geography, so as both teachers and students may profit from it.