The Impact of School Environment and Peer Influences on the Academic Achievement of Secondary School Students at Sinana District of Bale Zone, Oromia.

Abstract

This study examined the impact of school environment and peer influences on the students’ academic achievement. It assessed the school environment factors and peer influence in terms of the level of psychological impact they have on learners. The study was based on Walberg, Theory of Educational Productivity Considers learning as an interaction between environment, behavior, and one’s psychological processes. The study used a correlation research design where school environment and peer influence constituted the independent variables whereas students’ academic achievement was the dependent variable. Four public secondary schools in sinana District of Bale Zone in the study. The study subjects were selected using simple random sampling technique. Questionnaires were used to collect data on the school environment and the peer influence and school records were used to obtain students’ Academic Achievement. Data were analyzed using multiple regressions. The study established that school environment and peer influence made a significant contribution to the students’ academic achievement. Based on the analysis of data the researcher concludes the finding that there is no statistically significant difference in the academic achievements of students in terms of classroom environment and positive peer influence. At the same time, there is statistically significant difference in academic achievements of students in terms of physical facilities and negative peer influence. It is hoped that the recommendation could be for Government schools and all stakeholders must break down any barriers that impede school environment and peer influence factors. Thus, schools able to create a welcoming and inviting environment for students, by provide opportunities for students to collaborate with the school and/or teachers to identify support needs of the students, and keeping the lines of communication open.