Identification of factors influencing in selecting difference stream for the GCE (A/L) in Kalutara District

Abstract

The study was carried out to identify the factors influence in selecting four different subject streams (Science, Arts, Commerce and Technological) in GCE (A/L) examination in Kalutara district through a survey. The sampling method was 2-stage stratified proportional random sampling and the sample size was 416 students from five national schools representation five educational zones in Kalutara district. The four most significant factors in selecting streams in GCE (A/L) found were performance of GCE (O/L) subjects such as Sinhala, Mathematics and Science, students’ desire for the subject stream, parents’ influence and the parents’ monthly income are significant influntial factors in selectng GCE (A/L) subject stream. Of the students who selected Science stream (Physical Science or Bio Science) 97.3% of students obtained “A” passes in Science and 83.5% of students obtained “A” passes in Mathematics. None of the students selected the Science stream, if their parents’ monthly income was less than Rs.5, 000 per month. Further, it was found that father’s educational background is also a significant influential factor in deciding the subject stream, but the mother’s educational level was found not a significant influential factor. Other factors influencing in deciding the GCE(A/L) stream were facilities of the school, student’s view about the labour market and advices from pass-out students and teachers. However, about 60% of Science students have some certain idea about the labour market and also 60% of Science students have an idea about the higher study opportunities. About 50% of Arts students have no idea about the higher study opportunities. The results obtained in this study would be very useful in planning activities in educational reform. It is suggested to carry out similar studies in other districts.