Browsing by Author "Muthima, Purity W."

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    Research Skill Determinants and Completion Rate among Postgraduate Students in School of Education Kenyatta University, Kenya
    (UNESCO, 2022-12) Muthiani,Alice K.; Muthima, Purity W.; Itolondo,Wilfrida A.
    Master’s regular program has a specified time of three years and doctor of philosophy has specified time of four years in Kenyatta University. However, it has been observed that postgraduate students overstay in universities. This study sought to examine the extent to which research skills determine completion time among regular postgraduate students in the School of Education, Kenyatta University (KU). This study was anchored on Field theory. This study used survey research design and was conducted in school of education, KU. Sample size for this study was eleven SBPS members, ninety-two PhD students and 209 master’s students. A questionnaire for students, interview for SBPS and focused group discussion with students were used to collect data for this study. Mean, standard deviation, linear and multiple regressions were used in analyzing data whereas tables and narratives were used in data presentation. This study found that research skills determine completion time for postgraduate. Major research skills determining completion time are: topic identification; statement of the problem; criticizing, identifying research gaps and connecting reviewed literature with the current study; choosing research design; making appropriate research tools; and establishing appropriate data analysis methods. When research skills for PhD and masters are compared, research skills for masters’ students have greater determination of completion time as compared to those of PhDs. Study recommendations are: research unit be introduced at undergraduate level, for graduate students a practical and learner centered approach be used in teaching research unit. Finally graduate students may take in existing faculty research projects.