Browsing by Author "Karia, Mathew"

Now showing 1 - 8 of 8
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    Academic Staff Attitude towards Open Access Outlets in Disseminating Research Findings in Selected Universities in Kenya
    (International Researchers, 2017) Mutwiri, Caroline; Karia, Mathew; Murungi, Catherine Gakii
    This study sought to establish the attitude of academic staff towards Open Access (OA) outlets. A descriptive research design was chosen for the study to describe the attitude of academics with regard to the outlets. The study was carried out in selected chartered private and public universities in Kenya.A total of 15,000 academic staff formed the study population from which a sample of 381 was drawn using stratified random sampling technique to select respondents from various universities. A questionnaire was designed for academic staff containing both open and closed ended questions. The study established a negative attitude of academic staff towards OA outlets. They were of the view that works published in conventional print journals were more recognized than those published in OA outlets and that OA outlets quality was lower than that of renowned print journals. Academics were also skeptical over the rigorous of review mechanisms for OA outlets. Therefore, their conservative preference for traditional outlets over newer publishing avenues was evident from their responses. The study recommend campaigns to enlighten the academic staff to recognize legitimacy and quality standard of OA outlets.
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    Access arrangement practices, its effectiveness and influence on the performance of learners with dysgraphia in public lower-primary schools in Vihiga County, Kenya
    (European Journals of Education Studies, 2024) Mulima, Emmanuel Ian; Muthee, Jessina; Karia, Mathew
    The study explored the access arrangement practices, their effectiveness, and their influence on the performance of learners with dysgraphia in public lower-primary schools in Emuhaya Sub-County, Vihiga County. This study was anchored on Robert Gagne’s Conditions of Learning theory, proposed in 1965. A descriptive research design was adopted. The study aimed to include all 163 learners diagnosed with dysgraphia enrolled in lower public primary schools within the Emuhaya sub-county. Additionally, the study targeted 16 headteachers from public primary schools, 153 teachers, and 10 subcounty Education officers in the same sub-county. The researcher utilized stratified sampling to select 5 public primary schools. Purposive sampling was used to select 5 headteachers from the sampled schools. Similarly, purposive sampling was employed to select 6education officers from the Emuhaya sub-county. The researcher sampled 50 lower primary school teachers and 50 learners identified with dysgraphia from grade 1 to grade 3 in the sampled schools using simple random sampling. The researcher employed a combination of open and closed questionnaires, as well as interview guides, to gather data from different categories of participants. A pilot study was conducted in two public primary schools, which were not included in the main data collection. Qualitative data underwent content analysis, while quantitative data was analyzed using frequencies and percentages with SPSS. Results indicated that schools in Emuhaya utilized various access arrangements for students with dysgraphia. Dysgraphia was found to impact academic performance negatively, but with intervention, student performance improved by 5%–10% in successive exams. Students reported a positive change in attitude towards education due to the intervention, feeling supported by the school. The study concluded that access arrangements have an impact on the academic performance of students with dysgraphia. Before the intervention, dysgraphia hurt students' academic performance, as evidenced by poor performance in previous exams. The study recommended that the government need to implement a systematic identification method for documenting students with learning disabilities early in their academic journey. Early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for dysgraphia students and facilitate timely support and resources. Schools should prioritize the implementation of recommended interventions to support dysgraphia students, promote inclusivity, and foster a positive attitude towards education among all students, regardless of their learning needs.
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    An Evaluation of Parent-Implemented Intervention Measures for Speech and Language Delay among 3-5 Years Old in Nairobi City County, Kenya
    (European Journal of Special Education Research, 2025) Asamba, Francine; Karia, Mathew
    The study aimed to evaluate home factors for intervention of speech and language delay among children aged 3-5 years in Kawangware, Nairobi City County, Kenya. The study was guided by the theory of human development presented in Bronfenbrenner's Bio Ecological Model. A descriptive research design was adopted in the study. The focus of the study was on 30 children between ages 3-5 who are speech and language delayed and their parents from Riruta Holy Ghost Mission Special School and Dagoretti Muslim primary school. The study employed a purposive sampling technique. A pilot study was carried out at Kawangware Primary School to determine the reliability and validity of research instruments. The information was collected by interviewing parents. The data collected was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The analysis revealed varying levels of parental awareness regarding speech and language delay. While some parents recognized signs such as articulation problems and difficulty following directions, others demonstrated uncertainty or limited understanding. A significant proportion of parents (71.4%) had heard of speech therapy, indicating a moderate level of awareness. However, awareness of local services offering speech and language therapy was relatively low, with only 42.9% of parents being aware of such services. Multivariate analysis of the study revealed significant associations between parental knowledge, intervention measures, and speech development outcomes among children with speech and language delay in Kawangware, Nairobi City County. It was concluded that parent-implemented speech and language intervention measures play a crucial role in improving communication skills among children with speech and language delays. Therefore, it is recommended that future intervention efforts in the study area prioritize parental training and support to enhance the effectiveness of speech and language interventions. Additionally, collaboration between professionals and parents should be encouraged to ensure comprehensive and holistic support for children with speech and language delays in Kawangware, Nairobi City County. Administrators should collaborate with healthcare providers and community organizations to provide outreach programs and educational workshops for parents.
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    Barriers to Effective Developmental Screening of Children (0-24 Months) at Well-Baby Clinics in a Low-Income Community in Kenya
    (The International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI), 2025-07) Moraa, Shanice Kemunto; Karia, Mathew
    Several studies have emphasized the significance of developmental screening, which is necessary for early detection of children’s developmental delays. These delays include motor, cognitive, socio-emotional, as well as speech and language delays, which need to be identified during the critical period of development. Many children with delays, especially from low-income communities in Kenya, are not identified early enough. Consequently, these children fail to receive timely intervention that will enable them to reach their full potential. However, little research concerning developmental screening of children in low-income communities in Kenya exists. This study aimed to identify the barriers to effective developmental screening of children aged 0-24 months at well-baby clinics in a low-income community in Kenya. The study used a descriptive survey research design and an accessible sample of 248 respondents comprising children (0-24 months), their caregivers, and healthcare providers. Purposive sampling was used to sample the clinics, children aged 0-24 months, and their caregivers while convenience sampling was applied for the healthcare providers. Data collection was done by administering questionnaires to caregivers and interviewing the healthcare providers in the clinics. Using descriptive statistics, quantitative data were analyzed and presented in frequencies and percentages. The qualitative data obtained in the study was analyzed and coded thematically. According to the study findings, most caregivers and healthcare providers lacked knowledge in regards to developmental screening. Financial constraints, lack of screening locations, inadequate training and resources, lack of a standardized screening tool, insufficient staff and workload, as well as time constraints hindered developmental screening in the MCH clinics. The study recommended implementation of policies to facilitate awareness programs, implementation of appropriate screening strategies and referral procedures, adoption of a standardized screening tool, employment of more healthcare providers, and enhancing accessibility to screening locations in low-income communities in Kenya.
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    Computer Assisted Learning on Language Writing Skills among Learners with Hearing Impairments in Kiambu County, Kenya
    (EJSE, 2023) Wangui, Veronicah Wambui; Muriithi, Francis; Karia, Mathew
    The paper presents some of the key findings of a study that explored computer assisted learning on language writing skills among learners with hearing impairments in Kiambu County, Kenya. The study adopted a quasi-experimental research design consisting of 19 respondents who were learners with hearing impairments. These were from two learners were purposively sampled. The study adopted the cognitive theory of multimedia learning by Mayer. Data was collected using pre-test and post-test and a computer application ‘English Grammar Test’. The research data was analyzed using SPSS version 22 and primary data analyzed per objective. The findings on computer assisted learning on language writing skills among learners with hearing impairments were reported. The study findings showed that the learners’ language writing skills improved greatly at the posttest affirming the effectiveness of computer assisted learning.
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    Reading Comprehension Ability Levels of Fourth Grade Learners With Dyslexia in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, Kenya
    (European Journal of Special Education Research, 2024) Kinyua, Miriam; Muthee, Jessina; Karia, Mathew
    This study aimed to investigate the reading comprehension abilities of fourth-grade learners with dyslexia in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties. Guided by Chall's model of reading development, the research targeted 1,040 fourth-grade students with dyslexia from public primary schools. Purposive sampling was used to select 32 special needs teachers, while simple random sampling identified 166 learners with dyslexia, yielding a total of 198 respondents. Data was collected using the Dyslexia Screen Test Junior (DSTJ), document reviews, a classroom observation schedule, an interview schedule for teachers, and two comprehension tests. A pilot study was conducted in two special units, one in each county, to establish the reliability of the instruments, resulting in a Cronbach Alpha Coefficient of 0.82. Data was collected from special needs teachers of English and fourth-grade learners with dyslexia, along with a review of relevant academic documents. The collected data was categorized, coded, and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0, employing both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Quantitative data was analyzed through frequencies and percentages, presented in tables, while qualitative responses were thematically organized according to the research questions and objectives. The findings revealed substantial challenges in reading comprehension among the learners. A majority (68.1%) exhibited only a literal comprehension level and struggled with basic decoding, while only a small percentage achieved interpretive (24.8%), critical (5.7%), and creative (1.4%) levels. The study also noted that many learners read slowly and repetitively to grasp the text. It was concluded that the difficulties experienced by learners with dyslexia in reading fluency, memory, and comprehension significantly hindered their ability to achieve proficient levels of reading comprehension. The study recommended tailored interventions to enhance both decoding skills and comprehension strategies, aiming to improve reading performance for dyslexic learners. These results may guide stakeholders in the Ministry of Education in implementing targeted interventions and offer a foundation for future research on effective strategies for teaching reading comprehension to students with reading impairments.
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    Teachers' Intervention Strategies and Social Interaction among Learners With Emotional and Behavioural Disorders in Selected Primary Schools, Nairobi City County, Kenya
    (European Journal of Special Education Research, 2025) Nyabwengi, Faith Moraa; Karia, Mathew
    This study aimed to explore the impacts of music therapy on the speech development of children at Nakuru Hills Special School, Nakuru, Kenya. The theoretical framework of the study included cognitive behavior theory and social-pragmatic theory. A quasi-experimental design was used to group the participants into two groups: the comparison group and the experimental group. The comparison group of learners with speech development disorders or problems received standard care or intervention, while the experimental group of learners with speech development disorders or problems received music therapy. The research population included special education teachers, special schools’ music teachers, and caregivers, as well as speech and language pathologists working at Nakuru Hills Special School and Kenyatta University. The sample consisted of 20 participants randomly selected from the sample population. The study utilized a mixed research approach to achieve and answer research objectives and questions, respectively. The qualitative and quantitative research approaches were applicable in the mixed methodology. Interview and survey instruments were used for data collection. Piloting of the research instruments was done at Njoro Special School because it has similar characteristics and is situated in the neighboring Sub-County of Njoro. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, was conducted in IBM SPSS version 26 using particulars gathered during the survey. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data. Data collected from caregivers and speech therapists indicated significant progress in children's speech abilities following music therapy interventions. Key findings from the qualitative data revealed that caregivers observed noticeable enhancements in their children's articulation and vocabulary. The analysis using paired samples t-tests showed important changes in the scores from before and after the tests in different areas of speech development, such as saying single words, saying words in sentences, talking in conversations, writing sounds, and rhythm. Singing, instrument playing, and movement activities are key strategies in speech development. The study concludes that music therapy significantly enhances speech development in children with speech disorders at Nakuru Hills Special School. The study recommended that the Ministry of Education should establish explicit policies to incorporate music therapy into speech therapy programs in institutions with special needs, acknowledging its potential to improve speech development through child-centered and engaging approaches.
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    The relationship between reading comprehension ability level and reading performance in English language among grade four learners with dyslexia in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, Kenya
    (European Journal of Special Education Research, 2024) Kinyua, Miriam; Muthee, Jessina; Karia, Mathew
    This study aimed to establish the relationship between reading comprehension ability and reading performance in the English language among grade four learners with dyslexia in Nairobi and Kiambu counties. This study was guided by Gough and Tunmer’s Simple View of Reading and Chall’s Stagesof Reading Development theories. The study adopted a correlational research design to determine the type of relationships between predictor and outcome variables. The study targeted 1,040 grade four learners with dyslexia in public primary schools. The researcher used purposive sampling in the selection of 32 special needs teachers and simple random sampling to select 166 learners with dyslexia,translating to a total of 198 respondents. Dyslexia Screen Test Junior (DST-J), document review, classroom observation schedule, interview schedule for teachers, and two comprehension tests were employed by the researcher in data collection. Furthermore, the researcher conducted a pilot study in two special units in two public primary schools,one in Nairobi County and the other in Kiambu County. The reliability of the research instruments was established using the test-retest method,resulting in a 0.82 Cronbach Alpha Coefficient. Data was collected from Special needs teachers of English, Grade four learners with dyslexia, and by reviewing relevant academic documents. Coding and analysis of the quantitative data collected was done using SPSS version 21.0. To help determine the relationship between the independent and dependent variables, the researcher used Pearson's' correlation coefficient and ANOVA statistical tests. The findings revealed a significant correlation coefficient (r=0.355*), with a significance level of 0.000. These findings suggested a clear relationship between reading comprehension ability levels and English performance among grade four learners with dyslexia. Notably, the study observed a trend wherein an increased risk of dyslexia corresponded to decreased levels of reading comprehension ability, emphasizing the impact of dyslexia on reading proficiency in English. The study concluded that there was a significant relationship between reading comprehension ability level and reading performance in the English language among grade four learners with Dyslexia in Nairobi and Kiambu counties, Kenya. The study recommended that the MoE should provide comprehensive training programs for teachers to enhance their understanding of dyslexia and effective instructional strategies tailored to the needs of learners with dyslexia. This training should focus on structured literacy approaches, multisensory teaching methods, and accommodations specific to students with dyslexia. Moreover, teachers should develop and implement individualized education plans for students with dyslexia, outlining specific interventions, accommodations, and goals to support their reading development.