Factors Influencing Mastery of Multiplication Tables to Pupils in Selected Dodoma Primary Schools, Tanzania

Didas M. Ndalu & Zawadi Richard Juma
St John’s University of Tanzania
Ndaludidas1@gmail.com

Abstract: Mathematics is a fundamental skill that plays a crucial role in various aspects of everyday life, education and professional pursuits. Despite the great applications of mathematics, students’ performance has been declining steadily across almost all academic levels, particularly among youth. In Tanzania, efforts have been made to improve mathematics performance, however few studies have been done to find out the contribution of mastery of multiplication table as fundamental part of mathematics subject. Therefore, this study will look at the factors influencing mastery of multiplication tables to pupils in Dodoma primary schools in Tanzania. The study employed mixed method approach. Qualitative methods were used to collect data using in-depth-interview while quantitative data was collected through questionnaire. The study employed both random sampling and purposive sampling techniques to unearth the factors influencing mastery of multiplication tables to pupils in selected Dodoma primary schools. Qualitative data was analysed thematically and quantitative data analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings indicate that the factors influencing mastery of multiplication table in primary schools are parental involvement, peer interaction and cooperation, the use of games and songs during the teaching and learning process and the use of interactive online games. The study concludes that mastery of multiplication tables is crucial for improving pupils’ performance in mathematics. Further study should include a comprehensive study in other regions of the country to have conclusive findings about factors influencing mastery of multiplication tables to pupils in primary schools.