Educational outcomes of children in primary grades in Andhra Pradesh, India

The study aims to explore educational performances of children in the primary grades in Andhra Pradesh, India. For this, the study uses data from the Young Lives research. The study used bi-variate analysis to examine the status of educational performances of children; and logistic regression analysis to find out factors responsible for school performances. Educational performances have been examined using the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test results separately for reading, writing and mathematical abilities. The preliminary analysis shows that large percentage of boys and girls are not able to read and write in the primary grades. But, their mathematical abilities are relatively better than reading and writing. The logistic regression analysis results show that along with other variables boys with reference to girls; standard BMI of children with reference to low BMI; children getting mid-day meal in schools with reference to not getting; economic activities of children with reference to not working children ; and children in grade 2 and 3 with reference to grade1 are statistically significant predictors for better reading, writing and mathematical abilities. Mother’s education, middle and rich class are also important determinants of reading and writing.