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|  | The perceptions of Fijian secondary school students on the effects of cultural, religious and family obligations on their academic performance
Author: Nawele, Kelera
Institution: University of the South Pacific.
Award: M.Ed.
Subject: High school students -- Fiji -- Attitudes, Academic achievement -- Social aspects -- Fiji, Education, Secondary -- Fiji -- Cross-cultural studies
Date: 2006.
Call No.: pac LA 2270 .F5 N39 2006
BRN: 1026199
Copyright:10-20% of this thesis may be copied without the authors written permission
Abstract: This supervised research project examines the perceptions of Fijian secondary students regarding the impact of cultural, family and religious obligations on their academic performance. It documents the experiences and perceptions of forty five Fijian students from three predominantly co-educational Fijian secondary schools in Suva. The study attempts to understand the challenges and problems most Fijian students are faced with at home. The research method used was action-research through the use of document analysis through questionnaires and semi-structured, conversational, reflective interviews. The theoretical and conceptual basis of this study was drawn from international and national literature on cultural values in relation to academic performance. Literature review supports the notion that in some societies like Fiji, more emphasis on cultural values and activities are placed ahead of educational needs and aspirations. The important findings of the study are: Students agree that cultural obligations have negative impacts on their academic achievement; Cultural obligations contribute to Fijians under-achievement in schools; and Cultural obligations like cultural activities, religious commitment, attitude, urban poverty and living away from home are factors that affect the academic progress of Fijian students. The study concludes with important implications for parents, care givers and members of our community as well as suggestions for further research.
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