Efficacy of Information Provision Strategies for Promoting Mathematics Education in Tanzania: A Case of Selected Secondary Schools in Dar es Salaam

Abstract

This study examined information provision, as an important strategy for promotingmathematics education in Tanzania. A sample of 90 respondents from five secondaryschools namely Saint Mary ' s, Makongo, Kambangwa, Green Acres and JangwaniSecondary Schools was selected. To supplement questionnaires, face- to- faceinterviews, and documentary review were used to collect data. Findings revealedlimited use of various sources of information in promoting mathematics education andthere is no specific session which discusses the importance of mathematics ' importance for career development. Dependable sources of information for studentsare mainly teachers, parents and peer groups. There was poor usage of media and theinternet in promoting mathematics. Challenges related to mathematics subjectimprovements include motivational, technical, managerial and financial. Furthermorethe stereotype belief that mathematics subject is difficult for women but easy men, asituation which discourages girls to participate fully in mathematics education.Efficient use of media is emphasised for mathematics education promotion. The studyurges the need to harness the Web and available media in the publicising mathematicseducation information. Information professionals are urged to liaise with policymakers to rally together in influencing other practitioners in mathematics education topromote this subject.