An examination of certain factors affecting performance in English in a sample of CAST students

Abstract

This study examined factors affecting the performance in English of selected students at the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST) in Jamaica, with particular reference to attitude to English and self-concept. Data were collected from a sample of 335 students (195 male and 140 female) using four instruments--a language test, an attitude scale, a self-concept scale, and a questionnaire. The findings revealed positive correlations between English performance and English attitude, and English attitude and self-concept. Female students showed significantly better attitudes to English and higher English performance than males. There were no significant differences between socio-economic groups in the sample. The course studied had significant effects on performance and attitude to English, but no noticeable effect on self-concept of student