Test Anxiety as a Factor in Undergraduates’ Academic Performance at the Nigerian Premier University of Education

Abstract

This study investigates test anxiety as a factor in academic performance.
The aim was to determine whether students’ academic performance has
any bearing on the level of their test anxiety. Four hundred students were
randomly selected from the four colleges in Nigeria’s premier university of
education: (1) College of Applied Education & Vocational (2) College of
Humanities (3) College of Social Management Studies and (4) College of
Applied Sciences. One hundred students were randomly selected from each
College. Students’ Test Anxiety Questionnaire (STAQ) was designed and used
to collect data. Data was analysed using Pearson Product Moment Correction
and t-test. The result of the data analysis showed a high negative correlation
between test anxiety and academic performance. Test anxiety experienced
levels of male and female students also differ significantly. Regular periodic
programmes to reduce test anxiety should be organised by the University
Counselling Centre, while parents should help female students prepare better
for examinations in order to reduce test anxiety