An appraisal of school environment and its impact on students’ academic motivation in secondary schools in Wurno LGA, Sokoto State

An appraisal of school environment and its impact on students’ academic motivation in secondary schools in Wurno LGA, Sokoto State

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Background of the Study
The school environment is a critical determinant of students’ academic motivation and overall educational success. In secondary schools in Wurno LGA, Sokoto State, the physical, social, and psychological dimensions of the school setting play a pivotal role in shaping student attitudes towards learning. A supportive school environment that provides safe, well-equipped, and engaging spaces can stimulate student interest, promote active participation in class, and enhance academic performance (Abdulkareem, 2023). Conversely, a deteriorating or hostile environment may lead to decreased motivation, lower attendance, and poor academic outcomes. In Wurno LGA, various aspects of the school environment—including classroom conditions, availability of learning materials, extracurricular facilities, and teacher-student relationships—are believed to significantly influence students’ motivation to learn. Recent studies have demonstrated that factors such as lighting, ventilation, and seating arrangements in classrooms can directly affect students’ concentration and engagement (Sule, 2024). In addition, a positive social climate, characterized by mutual respect, supportive interactions, and clear communication, further reinforces the motivation to achieve academic excellence. However, many secondary schools in Wurno LGA face challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, and limited resources, which may undermine the potential benefits of a supportive learning environment. Furthermore, the absence of well-structured extracurricular activities and counseling services can exacerbate feelings of disinterest and disengagement among students. This study aims to appraise the overall school environment in secondary schools in Wurno LGA and evaluate its impact on students’ academic motivation. It seeks to identify the key environmental factors that either enhance or hinder motivation and propose strategies for creating a more conducive learning atmosphere. Through a comprehensive analysis that includes both physical and psychosocial elements, the research intends to provide a holistic understanding of how school environments influence academic motivation and to offer evidence-based recommendations for improving these settings to foster better academic outcomes (Ibrahim, 2025).

Statement of the Problem
Secondary schools in Wurno LGA, Sokoto State, face significant challenges regarding the quality of their school environment, which in turn impacts students’ academic motivation. Many schools are characterized by inadequate infrastructure, including poorly maintained classrooms, insufficient learning materials, and limited access to extracurricular facilities. These deficiencies create a learning environment that is not conducive to stimulating student interest or encouraging active participation in academic activities. Moreover, the social climate in these schools often suffers due to a lack of supportive teacher-student relationships and effective communication channels. Such conditions contribute to low levels of student engagement, which adversely affects academic performance and overall motivation. The problem is further compounded by external factors such as socio-economic constraints and community challenges that limit schools' capacity to improve their environment. Despite the recognized importance of a positive school environment, there has been little empirical research in Wurno LGA examining the direct impact of these environmental factors on student motivation. Without a conducive environment, students may experience heightened levels of stress and disengagement, leading to lower academic achievement and increased dropout rates. This study seeks to fill the existing gap by systematically investigating the relationship between school environment and academic motivation in secondary schools. By identifying the specific environmental factors that are most detrimental to student motivation, the research aims to provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, school administrators, and community stakeholders. Addressing these issues is critical to ensure that schools can provide a supportive and motivating environment that encourages students to excel academically (Abdullahi, 2025).

Objectives of the Study

1. To evaluate the impact of the school environment on students’ academic motivation in secondary schools.

2. To identify key environmental factors that affect student engagement and motivation.

3. To recommend improvements to enhance the school environment and boost academic motivation.

Research Questions

1. How does the school environment influence students’ academic motivation in secondary schools?

2. What are the critical environmental factors affecting student engagement?

3. What measures can be taken to improve the school environment and enhance academic motivation?

Research Hypotheses

1. A positive school environment is significantly associated with higher levels of academic motivation.

2. Poor infrastructural conditions negatively impact student engagement and motivation.

3. Improvements in the school environment lead to measurable increases in academic performance.

Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it provides a detailed appraisal of how school environments influence academic motivation in secondary schools. The insights gained will help educators and policymakers develop strategies to create more engaging and supportive learning environments, ultimately leading to improved academic outcomes. The findings will inform targeted interventions that address both physical and psychosocial aspects of the school setting, fostering an atmosphere conducive to student success (Olawale, 2024).

Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is confined to secondary schools in Wurno LGA, Sokoto State, and focuses solely on the relationship between school environment and academic motivation. It does not extend to other factors influencing academic performance or to schools outside the designated area.

Definitions of Terms

1. School Environment: The physical, social, and psychological conditions within a school that affect student learning and well-being.

2. Academic Motivation: The drive and enthusiasm students exhibit towards engaging in academic activities and achieving educational goals.

3. Learning Atmosphere: The overall climate in a school that includes both the physical conditions and the interpersonal relationships that influence student engagement.

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