CAUSATIVE FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR DECLINE IN ENROLMENT OF MATHEMATICS STUDENTS AT SENIOR SECONDARY LEVEL IN KASHMIR

Education is the foundation upon which societies build their future. It is through education that individuals acquire knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for personal and professional growth. Mathematics education, in particular, plays a critical role in fostering logical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and quantitative reasoning. It provides a strong foundation for various fields such as engineering, science, technology, finance, and many others. Therefore, it is essential to understand and address the factors that contribute to the decline in the enrollment of mathematics students at the senior secondary level.

The current research project report delves into the causative factors responsible for the concerning decline in the enrollment of mathematics students at the senior secondary level. It aims to shed light on the underlying reasons for this decline, as well as the potential implications it may have on students, educational institutions, and the future workforce. By identifying and understanding these factors, educational policymakers, administrators, and stakeholders can develop targeted strategies to reverse this trend and ensure the availability of a competent and skilled workforce in the mathematics-related fields.

The decline in the enrollment of mathematics students at the senior secondary level raises concerns for several reasons. Firstly, mathematics is a fundamental subject that forms the backbone of various scientific and technical disciplines. A strong foundation in mathematics enables students to navigate complex problem-solving scenarios and equips them with the skills required for higher education and future careers. Without a sufficient number of students opting for mathematics at the senior secondary level, there is a risk of compromising the overall quality of education and impeding technological advancements.

Secondly, the decline in mathematics enrollment may have broader societal implications. In an increasingly digital and data-driven world, the demand for professionals with strong mathematical skills is on the rise. Fields such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity heavily rely on a solid mathematical background. The scarcity of mathematics graduates may create a talent gap, hindering innovation and growth in these critical sectors.

Furthermore, the decline in enrollment poses challenges to educational institutions offering mathematics programs. A decrease in student numbers may result in financial constraints, reduced resources, and a potential decrease in the quality of mathematics education provided. It is essential to understand the factors contributing to the decline to develop effective strategies for attracting and retaining students in mathematics programs.

The current research project aims to bridge the gap in the existing knowledge by conducting a thorough investigation into the causative factors responsible for the decline in enrollment of mathematics students at the senior secondary level. By employing a rigorous research design, comprehensive data collection methods, and robust analysis techniques, we seek to uncover the underlying reasons behind this trend. The findings of this research project will provide valuable insights to inform educational policymakers, administrators, and stakeholders in designing evidence-based interventions to address the decline and promote mathematics education at the senior secondary level.

It is important to note that this research project has its limitations. The study focuses on a specific region or educational system, and the findings may not be generalizable to other contexts. Additionally, the research relies on self-reported data and the perceptions of students, teachers, and administrators, which may introduce bias. However, every effort has been made to mitigate these limitations and ensure the credibility and reliability of the research findings.