Difficulties of Senior High School Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering (STEM) Students in Research

Abstract

Research is considered to be the most important output of the students. In present day research is required not only in tertiary education but also in senior high school. This study aims to identify the difficulties encountered by senior high school STEM students in doing research. The study is primarily based on the theory of challenge and support which explained that the two factors need to be balanced to attain the students’ personal development and growth.Utilizing content analysis as a design and latent analysis in analysing data, four categories of difficulties are identified in the study include paper-related, research partners, advisee to adviser, and personal issues and hindrances. Findings reveal that the most difficulties are searching for related literature, cooperation and participation, teacher’s schedule, and poor time management. This study helps raise teachers’ awareness on the common difficulties of students in doing research. Some recommendations are made to help the students in addressing the difficulties found in this study.