The effect of STEM competitions on student motivation in Kanam LGA, Plateau State
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study :
STEM competitions have become an increasingly popular means of stimulating student interest and motivation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These competitions provide a platform for students to showcase their skills, engage in problem-solving, and experience the excitement of real-world challenges. In Kanam LGA, Plateau State, where educational resources can be limited, STEM competitions offer an alternative avenue for fostering academic enthusiasm and enhancing practical learning. By participating in competitions, students are exposed to collaborative environments that encourage creative thinking and innovation. Recent research suggests that such competitive events not only improve technical knowledge but also boost self-confidence and perseverance (Ibrahim, 2023). Moreover, STEM competitions create opportunities for networking with peers and professionals, thereby broadening students’ perspectives regarding potential career paths in science and technology (Ogbonna, 2024). In Kanam LGA, these competitions have the potential to mitigate some of the limitations imposed by under-resourced educational settings by providing experiential learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Despite the promising benefits, challenges such as inadequate funding, limited access to coaching, and logistical hurdles can affect the overall impact of these competitions. Furthermore, there is a need to assess whether participation in STEM competitions translates into sustained academic motivation and improved performance over time. This study aims to critically evaluate the role of STEM competitions in enhancing student motivation in Kanam LGA, examining factors such as the quality of competition organization, student perceptions, and the long-term academic benefits. By understanding the influence of competitive environments on learning, educators and policymakers can develop strategies to incorporate such events into the broader educational framework, thereby creating a more engaging and supportive learning environment for students (Abdullahi, 2025).
Statement of the Problem :
In Kanam LGA, Plateau State, student motivation in STEM subjects has been a persistent challenge, with many learners showing disinterest in pursuing science and technology-related courses. Although STEM competitions are promoted as a means to ignite interest and enhance engagement, there is limited empirical evidence on their actual impact on student motivation in this region. The lack of structured support and limited funding for organizing quality competitions further exacerbate the problem. Many students who participate in these events report initial excitement; however, the sustainability of this motivation is often questioned, as post-competition follow-ups and mentoring are rarely provided (Adamu, 2024). Moreover, disparities in access to preparatory resources mean that only a select group of students can fully benefit from these competitions, thereby widening the gap between high-achieving and underperforming students. The inadequacy of comprehensive feedback mechanisms also hinders the potential for long-term motivational benefits, leaving many students without clear guidance on how to improve. This disconnect between the short-term excitement generated by STEM competitions and long-term academic engagement necessitates a thorough investigation. The study seeks to determine whether participation in STEM competitions is associated with sustained improvements in motivation and academic performance. By analyzing both quantitative performance data and qualitative feedback from students and educators, the research aims to identify key factors that influence the effectiveness of these competitions. The outcomes of this study are expected to inform future initiatives, ensuring that STEM competitions in Kanam LGA are designed to provide lasting motivational benefits and support academic growth (Umar, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
-
To assess the impact of STEM competitions on student motivation in Kanam LGA.
-
To identify the challenges and disparities affecting competition participation.
-
To recommend strategies for enhancing the long-term motivational benefits of STEM competitions.
Research Questions:
-
How do STEM competitions affect student motivation and academic performance?
-
What challenges limit the effectiveness of these competitions in Kanam LGA?
-
What measures can be taken to ensure sustained motivation post-competition?
Research Hypotheses:
-
H1: Participation in STEM competitions is positively correlated with increased student motivation.
-
H2: Limited access to preparatory resources negatively impacts the motivational benefits of STEM competitions.
-
H3: Structured mentoring and follow-up sessions enhance the long-term impact of STEM competitions on academic performance.
Significance of the Study :
This study is significant as it evaluates the role of STEM competitions in fostering sustained student motivation in Kanam LGA. The findings will provide educators and policymakers with practical recommendations for designing competitions that offer lasting academic benefits. Enhanced competition structures could lead to increased interest in STEM subjects and improved overall academic performance, thereby contributing to the development of a skilled workforce (Suleiman, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
Limited to the topic only.
Definitions of Terms:
-
STEM Competitions: Organized events that challenge students to solve problems and innovate in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
-
Student Motivation: The drive or willingness of students to engage in academic and extracurricular learning activities.
-
Kanam LGA: A local government area in Plateau State with unique educational and resource challenges.
Related Project Materials
IMPACT OF PRICING POLICY ON PROFITABILITY LEVEL OF AN ORGANIZATION
ABSTRACT
This study was intended to evaluate the impact of pricing on profitability level of an organization. This study...
THE IMPACT OF ACCOUNTING FINANCIAL INFORMATION SYSTEM ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF COMMERCIAL BANK IN NIGERIA (A CASE OF FIRST BANK)
Abstract
An organization comprises of a combination of various information systems. These various information syst...
The impact of school sports competitions on student motivation in Kano Municipal Local Government Area, Kano State.
Background of the Study
Student motivation is a critical determinant of academic and personal success, and school sports c...
Design of a Blockchain-Based System for Secure University Document Authentication: A Case Study of Federal University, Lafia (Lafia LGA, Nasarawa State)
Background of the Study
University documents, including certificates, transcripts, and student records, play a crucial role in academic veri...
PERCEPTION OF PARENTS ON OVER-SCHOOLING OF CHILDREN AT THE PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION IN ONITSHA EDUCATIONAL ZONE OF ANAMBRA STATE
ABSTRACT
Over-schooling at the pre-primary school is a serious violation of the provisions of National Policy on Educati...
The Effect of Corporate Communication on Decision-Making in Organizations: A Study of Gaya Local Government Area, Kano State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Effective decision-making is a cornerstone...
A LEXICO-SEMANTIC STUDY OF THE LANGUAGE OF ADVERTISEMENT IN PIDGIN ENGLISH
Background To The Study
The concern of this research is the language of advertisement in pidgin English...
An Appraisal of Leadership Accountability in Ilorin West LGA, Kwara State: A Case Study of Constituency Projects
Background of the Study
Leadership accountability is a cornerstone of effective governance, ensuring that leaders are an...
An Appraisal of the Effects of Work Environment on the Mental Health of Psychiatric Nurses: A Case Study of University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Abuja
Background of the Study
Psychiatric nursing is a specialized field of nursing that involves providing c...
An Investigation of Nurses' Roles in Crisis Intervention for Patients with Schizophrenia at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Kaduna
Background of the Study
Schizophrenia is a severe and chronic mental disorder characterized by sympto...
