Problematic topics in high school mathematics requiring university mathematics: exploring the NSC mathematics examination

Abstract

This article discusses the challenges high school mathematics learners face when transitioning to university mathematics, specifically with calculus and trigonometry. The study analysed the South African high school mathematics curriculum and the mathematics NSC examiners’ reports, revealing a significant gap between high school and first-year university mathematics major courses. The researchers recommend an alteration of the South African high school curriculum to allow students to specialise in limited subjects directly linked to their future studies, specifically in calculus and trigonometry. This specialisation would allow for the introduction and deeper exploration of topics such as integration, complex numbers, differential equations, vector analysis, and matrices, which are currently missing from the mainstream high school mathematics curriculum. The study aims to inform support programmes such as tutorials and bridging courses offered at universities to be more effective in addressing the school-to-university transition problem for mathematics and science students.