Use of Post Hoc Analysis in Determination of Students’ Performance in 2023-2025 Mathematics WASSCE Multiple Choice Test in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Post-Hoc analysis is undertaken when a tested hypothesis is rejected and there is further need to identify the variable that is responsible for the difference. The study investigated the use of Post-Hoc analysis in the determination of students' academic performance in the 2023-2025 Mathematics WASSCE in Ojo LGA, Lagos State, as three null hypotheses were formulated for this study. It employed a survey research design using the descriptive approach as the population comprised Senior Secondary School III students who sat for the 2023-2025 WASSCE. A multi-staged sampling procedure was employed in the selection of the sample. First, simple random sampling adopting the ballot and hat method was used to select Ojo LGA; then, an inclusive method was employed to select 30 public secondary schools. Thirdly, a proportionate sampling procedure using 50% was introduced to select 15 students each from the 30 schools to form a sample of 450 students. The 2023-2025 Mathematics WASSCE tests were used for data collection. Content and construct validity were established by the examination body itself in the course of validating the items. The test-retest form of reliability yielded an index of .895 (2023), .790 (2024), and .861 (2025), respectively. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Post-Hoc statistics were used to analyse data with the use of LISREL software, and all hypotheses were tested at .05 level of significance. The study revealed Post-Hoc analysis was useful only in the 2025 mathematics test alone. It concluded that the difference in the 2025 Mathematics Test was attributed to the ability of test takers, latent traits and interest level of male students. It recommended that female students need to be encouraged and motivated to build careers around mathematics-related subjects.