Assessing The Effectiveness of Continuous Assessment Practices in Enhancing Pupils' Academic Achievement in Secondary Schools in Kenema City, Sierra Leone

Abstract

This study assessed the effectiveness of continuous assessment practices in enhancing pupils' academic achievement in secondary schools in Kenema City, Sierra Leone. The research focused on three selected secondary schools: Government Secondary School Kenema, Methodist Secondary School Kenema, and Ansarul Islamic Secondary School Kenema. The primary objective was to examine how continuous assessment practices contribute to improving pupils' academic achievement and to identify the challenges affecting their effective implementation.
A descriptive survey research design was adopted, targeting teachers and pupils from the selected schools. A sample of 100 respondents, comprising 40 teachers and 60 pupils, was selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected through structured questionnaires containing both open-ended and closed-ended questions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, while qualitative responses were analyzed thematically.
The findings revealed that continuous assessment practices are widely implemented in the selected secondary schools, with class tests (37.5%) and assignments/homework (25%) being the most commonly used assessment methods. The study further established that most teachers conduct assessments regularly, with 45% administering class tests weekly and 30% conducting them twice monthly. Results indicated that continuous assessment positively influences pupils' academic achievement, as 86.7% of pupils reported improved understanding of subjects, while 90% stated that continuous assessment motivates regular study habits.
Despite these positive outcomes, several challenges affecting effective implementation were identified, including excessive assessment workload (50%), delays in releasing results (33.3%), unclear grading systems (25%), limited use of diverse assessment techniques, and delayed feedback mechanisms.
The study concluded that continuous assessment significantly contributes to enhancing pupils' academic achievement by promoting regular learning, improving understanding, and encouraging continuous study habits. However, its effectiveness depends on proper implementation, timely feedback, and the use of varied assessment methods. Recommendations include diversifying assessment strategies, establishing clear grading guidelines, providing timely feedback, and strengthening teacher professional development in educational measurement and evaluation.