Factors affecting academic performance among registered general nursing (rgn) diploma students in nursing training colleges in Ashanti Region of Ghana

Abstract

Identification of factors which affect students' progression, performance and completion is instrumental in the planning and development of programme to ensure best outcomes for both the institution and the student. This notwitstanding, it appears there is some literature gap on this subject matter in Ghana in relation to the academic performance of nursing training college students. It is not yet known why some nursing students fail to attain the standards expected of them. This study sought to examine the factors that affect academic performance of RGN diploma students in nursing training colleges in the Ashanti Region. Data were elicited with a questionnaire from a sample of 214 students and 88 tutors for the study. Specifically, the study sought to find out the socio-demographic characteristics and the school environmental factors affecting students academic performance. It was also to ascertain whether students’ indiscipline and the teaching style of tutors do afffect the academic performance of RGN diploma nursing students. The study adopted the cross-sectional study design. It was found from the study that entry aggregate and occupation of mothers were socio-demographic factors which influenced the academic performance of the students. It was also observed that various factors such as library in the school, and Internet connectivity for students’ use, influence academic performance of students. On the basis of the findings it was recommended that Heads/Principals of Nursing Training institutons should put in measures such as infrastructual development to ensure that the nursing training institutions have a conducive learning environment.