ABSTRACT
Objectives: To identify factors influencing the perceived academic performance among second and third year health sciences students in Ajman
Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in Gulf Medical University and Ajman University of Science and Technology during February and March, 2012. Incidental sampling was used in the study. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 300 students aged 18 to 28 years
Results: The study population comprised 39.3% males and 60.7% females. 54.7% of the students were in the 18 to 20 year age group. 98 respondents were Arabs. 173 respondents were second year health science students, who formed the majority. 38.2% of students who spent more time in academic-related activities were better performers than those who spent less time on these activities [7.9%]. Chi square test showed a p value< 0.000 on association between time management skill and academic performance, which was found to be significant
Conclusion: Many academic and non- academic factors can influence academic performance by students. Of these factors, time management skill was statistically the most significant factor influencing perceived academic performance
The results suggest a guideline for student counselors and for students to improve or maintain the academic performance of the latter in educational institutions