How Participation in Extracurricular Activities Impact a Caribbean Student's Academic Success

Bakhita Johnston
To What Extent Does Participation in Extracurricular Activities Impact on Academic Success of Form 6 Students STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM:
The topic chosen for this Internal Assessment is “To What Extent Does Participation in Extracurricular Activities Impact on Academic Success of Form 6 Students?”
PURPOSE OF RESEARCH/ BACKGROUND TO THE PROBLEM:
After casually observing my classmates’ grades, I have seen that some of them who participate in extracurricular activities prosper in their academics whereas some that do not participate in any, seem to fall behind and also, I have observed the exact opposite. This has led me to suspect that there is a researchable problem in which I will aim to evaluate the extent to which participation in extracurricular activities impact on academic success of Form 6 students. Furthermore, this research will serve to guide students as to where to allocate their time, in relation to extracurricular activities, so they may attain better school grades.
Although many studies have been conducted on the impact of extracurricular activities on academic success, my research is specifically directed to Form Six students of a particular school, St. Joseph’s Convent, St. Joseph. Most Form Six students are involved in one or more extracurricular activity, whether it is in school or outside of school. And now that we are in a critical stage in our academic development, sitting the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination, it is important to understand the value that extracurricular activities plays in helping us achieve academic success.

EDUCATIONAL VALUE:
This research shows a great deal of educational value. Extracurricular activities are seen as extremely important by many universities and are a requirement when applying. My study will explain why extracurricular activities are so important to the development of a student, in particular, their academic results. It will investigate and analyse the impacts extracurricular activities have on academic success from which students and their guardians can review the findings and may benefit from the information provided. It is hoped that everyone who reads my research will come away with a better understanding as to the importance of extracurricular activities and its’ impacts on academic success.

TECHNICAL TERMS: 1. Extracurricular Activity- activities that impart knowledge or skill not falling within the scope of the regular curriculum. 2. Impact – influence; effect. 3. Academic Success: Favorable or prosperous results relating to education or scholarship. 4. Participation - the fact of taking part, as in some action or attempt

RESEARCH QUESTIONS: 1. Is there any correlation between extracurricular activities and academic results? 2. What are the positive and negative impacts of extracurricular activities on students’ academics? 3. How much time spent doing extracurricular activities is most ideal for the average student? 4. Are there certain types of extracurricular activities that impact academic success more than others?