IMPROVING MATHEMATICAL SKILLS AMONG RURAL STUDENTS IN KOGI STATE USING IMPROVISATION TECHNIQUE

Mathematics remains an essential part of the education system in the educational landscape of Nigeria. It is a compulsory subject at all levels of education and a prerequisite for academic transition. Thus, proficiency in the basic concepts of mathematic is essential for educational progression and better adjustment in contemporary society. However, the subject has been fraught with challenges ranging from learner characteristics to instructional strategies. Intimations point to the prevalence of poor mathematical skills among rural students in the Kogi state of Nigeria. The present study aimed to test the effect of improvising instructional materials on improving math-related skills among students in the states rural communities. The population of the study included primary school students. One hundred and eighty-six primary 5 and 6 students constituted the study samples. A quasi-experimental design was used. The result established a statistically significant difference between the experimental and control group on math skills. The study concludes that improvisation of mathematics instructional materials is a widely researched approach that could enhance the mathematics skills of primary school students in rural communities. The findings and recommendations are discussed.