The Influence of Classroom Physical Conditions on Pupils’ Academic Performance in Public Primary Schools in Butiama District, Mara Region, Tanzania
Thomas Levarakwo Simion – Butiama District Council, Butiama, P. O. Box 1207, Butiama, Tanzania
Karoli Mrema – The Open University of Tanzania, P.O. Box 23409, Dar-es-salaam, Tanzania
Winifrida Malingumu – The Open University of Tanzania, P.O. Box 23409, Dar-es-salaam, Tanzania
Email: thomassimion16@gmail.com
Abstract: This study examined the influence of classroom physical conditions on pupils’ academic performance in public primary schools in Butiama District, Mara Region, Tanzania. The study was guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory (1979) and adopted a pragmatic paradigm with a mixed-methods approach using an exploratory sequential research design. Data were collected from 203 respondents comprising 167 teachers, 18 head teachers, and 18 Ward Education Officers from 18 purposively selected public primary schools. Questionnaires were administered to teachers, while semi-structured interviews were conducted with head teachers and Ward Education Officers. Quantitative data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings showed that classroom physical conditions were generally inadequate, with mean scores of 2.40 for classroom infrastructure adequacy, 2.33 for availability of learning facilities, 2.26 for learning environment conditions, and 2.18 for teaching and learning resources. Qualitative findings further revealed that classroom shortages and overcrowding, inadequate desks, poor ventilation and lighting, and shortages of teaching and learning resources reduced pupils’ concentration, participation, comfort, teacher–pupil interaction, and understanding of lessons, thereby negatively affecting academic performance. The study concludes that conducive classroom physical conditions are important for supporting pupils’ academic performance. It recommends that the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and Local Government Authorities strengthen investment in adequate classrooms, desks, lighting, ventilation, learning facilities, and regular maintenance, particularly in overcrowded and disadvantaged schools.
