ABSTRACT
The paper examines Design and Implementation of a Cumulative Grade Point Average Management System (A case study of University of Uyo). Considering the numerous challenges students and lecturers face in manually calculating CGPA, the paper aims at developing a secure and convenient management system where students, lecturers and examination officers can calculate CGPA in real time. Considering technology used in implementing this work, the researcher used HTML, CSS, SQL and PHP. These technologies were considered because of its robust and simplicity in solving complex issues faced by many campuses in Nigeria.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
In today's educational landscape, managing student academic performance data efficiently is paramount for educational institutions. One crucial aspect of this management is the tracking and computation of Cumulative Grade Point Averages (CGPA), a measure widely used to assess a student's overall academic achievement. The design and implementation of a CGPA management system not only streamline administrative tasks but also provide valuable insights for educators, students, and parents alike. This introduction explores the significance of such a system, its functionalities, and its potential impact on educational institutions (Smith, J., & Johnson, A. , 2020).
The design of a CGPA management system involves careful consideration of various factors, including data input mechanisms, computation algorithms, user interface design, and data security measures. By leveraging modern technologies such as database management systems, web development frameworks, and data analytics tools, institutions can develop robust systems capable of handling large volumes of student data efficiently. Moreover, incorporating features such as real-time updates, personalized dashboards, and data visualization tools can enhance user experience and facilitate data-driven decision-making (Brown, C., & Davis, R., 2019).
Implementation of a CGPA management system requires collaboration among stakeholders, including administrators, IT professionals, educators, and students. Effective communication and thorough requirement analysis are essential to ensure that the system meets the diverse needs of its users. Additionally, rigorous testing and continuous feedback mechanisms are crucial to identify and address any potential issues or limitations. By adopting agile development methodologies, institutions can iterate rapidly and adapt the system to evolving educational practices and technological advancements (Jones, M., et al., 2018).
This paper aims to explore the design and implementation of a CGPA management system, examining its technical architecture, functionality, usability, and impact on educational outcomes. Drawing upon relevant literature, case studies, and practical examples, this study seeks to provide insights into best practices, challenges, and opportunities associated with CGPA management systems in educational settings. By understanding the design principles and implementation strategies outlined in this paper, educational institutions can harness the full potential of CGPA management systems to improve administrative efficiency, enhance student engagement, and support data-informed decision-making (National Center for Education Statistics, 2021).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The management of Cumulative Grade Point Averages (CGPA) poses a significant challenge for educational institutions, particularly in the context of manual and fragmented data management systems. Without a centralized and automated system, institutions struggle with inefficient data collection, calculation errors, and limited accessibility to student academic performance records. This fragmented approach not only consumes valuable administrative resources but also hampers timely and informed decision-making regarding student progress and academic interventions. Moreover, the absence of standardized CGPA calculation methods across institutions may lead to inconsistencies in grading practices, hindering the comparability of student performance data and impeding the evaluation of educational outcomes.
Furthermore, the lack of a comprehensive CGPA management system exacerbates the difficulty in providing personalized academic support and guidance to students. Educators often face challenges in identifying at-risk students, monitoring their academic progress, and implementing targeted interventions to address underlying issues. Additionally, students and parents may experience frustration due to the lack of transparent and accessible information regarding academic performance metrics, hindering their ability to make informed decisions about educational pathways and interventions. Therefore, there is a pressing need for the design and implementation of a robust CGPA management system that addresses these challenges by providing a unified platform for data collection, calculation, analysis, and reporting, thereby enhancing administrative efficiency, promoting data-driven decision-making, and improving student outcomes.
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Design and Implementation of a Cumulative Grade Point Average Management System (A case study of University of Uyo). Specific objectives of the study are:
- To design a well-structured and optimized database management system to store, process and retrieve student GPA and academic records in real-time.
- To design and Implement a fast and secure CGPA management system that can accommodate records for all students in a University.
- To create a fast query system where students and lecturers can search for CGPA records in real-time.
- To proffer solutions to the challenges and enhance already existing systems in place.
SCREEN SHOTS OF THE APPLICATION
1.4 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Information Technology sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to the University of Uyo. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter three focuses on the methodology and analysis of the existing system. This gives an insight into the analysis of systems in place already, facts finding sources, input analysis, output analysis, process analysis and objectives of the new system to be implemented.
Chapter Four focuses on the Analysis of the New system to be Implemented, the design standard, output specification and design, input specification and design, system flow chart and requirements.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
References
Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA): CGPA is a numerical representation of a student's overall academic performance over a specified period, typically calculated by averaging the grade points earned in all completed courses. It serves as a standardized measure used by educational institutions to evaluate students' academic achievements and is often used for academic standing, degree classification, and scholarship eligibility purposes.
Management System: A management system in the context of CGPA refers to a software application or platform designed to streamline the process of collecting, storing, analyzing, and managing student academic performance data. It encompasses functionalities such as data entry, calculation algorithms, data storage, retrieval mechanisms, user interfaces, and reporting capabilities, aimed at facilitating efficient administration and decision-making within educational institutions.
Design: In the context of CGPA management system, design refers to the process of conceptualizing and planning the architecture, features, and user experience of the software application or platform. It involves defining the system requirements, specifying the technical components, establishing data models, and designing user interfaces to meet the needs of stakeholders while adhering to usability and accessibility standards.
Implementation: Implementation involves the actual development, configuration, and deployment of the CGPA management system according to the defined design specifications. It encompasses programming, database setup, integration with existing systems, testing, and deployment activities aimed at ensuring the functionality, reliability, and performance of the system in real-world educational environments.
User Interface (UI): The user interface of a CGPA management system refers to the graphical interface through which users interact with the system to input data, view information, and perform tasks related to managing student academic performance. It encompasses elements such as forms, menus, buttons, and visualizations designed to facilitate intuitive navigation and efficient interaction with the system.
