Mapping the relationship and influence of school internal factors with an eye towards students' science academic outcomes

The present research sought to explore the relationship between school internal factors and their influence on students' academic outcomes in science subjects at the secondary school level in Punjab, Pakistan. A quantitative survey method was employed, utilizing a self-administered questionnaire to collect data on school internal factors, including laboratories, curriculum, and teacher quality, and students' science academic outcomes. The study sampled 210 secondary schools across Punjab, encompassing 630 science teachers specializing in biology, physics, and chemistry. Three hypotheses were formulated and tested. The constructs' underlying structure was examined through both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, using the PLS-PM Path Modeling approach to support these analyses. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) revealed that the measurement model demonstrated internal consistency. The path analysis results indicated that laboratories, curriculum, and teacher quality significantly and positively influence students' academic outcome in science subjects. The study concludes that enhancing the resourcefulness of science educators is crucial, particularly through the provision of support materials for science teaching and learning. This support enables students to engage in experimental learning, develop critical thinking skills, and explore innovative approaches to problem-solving. Furthermore, the findings emphasize the importance of regularly reviewing and updating the secondary school curriculum to ensure its quality. The recruitment of certified teachers with advanced degrees in relevant fields and the provision of ongoing professional development for educators are also recommended to improve academic outcomes in science.