Prediction of national mathematics and science achievement by socioeconomic and health factors with a focus on Ghana

Mathematics and Science are two disciplines considered imperative for technological advancement of any country. However, Ghana placed 47th out of 48 counties in the 2003 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). Ghana placed lowest for both Mathematics and Science in the 2011 TIMSS. The purpose of this study was to examine Mathematics and Science achievements in relation to economic and health outcomes for the countries in the 2011 TIMSS report. Multiple linear regression was used as a method to predict achievement. The criterion variables were a Mathematics composite score and a Science composite score. The predictors were Under 5 Mortality Rate and Gross National Income for both Science and Mathematics. Science achievement was more strongly related (55%) to these predictors than was Mathematics achievement (47%). Ghana's results were accurately predicted based on these factors. These findings have implications for Ghanaian educators. --Leaf ii.