Factors Affecting Mathematics Achievement: Analysis of Learner Characteristics and Competencies

Using k-means clustering, this study investigated whether desirable characteristics and student competencies were factors that impacted mathematics achievement. The findings revealed the existence of three clusters of students. Cluster 1 consisted of high-achieving students who possessed desirable attributes. Cluster 2 included students who had desirable attributes and passed the competency assessment, resulting in academic results ranging from 0 to 1.5. Cluster 0 comprised students who received good evaluation results for desirable attributes but only met the minimum criteria for competency assessment, resulting in grades ranging from 2 to 2.5. However, some students in Cluster 0 were still able to achieve desirable attributes and obtain competency assessment results within the passing criteria, resulting in grades ranging from 2.5 to 3. The research highlights the significance of desirable characteristics and competencies in determining mathematics achievement.