Motivational factors that affect primary school pupils' participation in organized sport: a case study of Shinyalu division in Kakamega district, Kenya

Abstract

The study investigated motivational factors that affect pupil participation in organised sport in Shinyalu Division of Kakamega District. The research examined the most important factors in youth sport, which included interest in sport, perceptions of success in sport and perceptions of failure in sport. Data were collected by survey, which was conducted in nine schools in Shinyalu Division of Kakamega District. The study sample consisted of 20 pupils from each school, five boys and five girls from class 5 and also five boys and five girls from class 6. Three schools from Shinyalu Division were used for pilot study, but did not feature in the main study. Pupils responded to a questionnaire that focused on three salient factors in children sports, that is; interest in sports, success in sports and failure in sports. The questionnaire, with a three point Likert scale required pupils to tick either "Agree', "Not sure" or "Disagree". Data obtained from the research instrument were analysed using frequencies, percentages and Chi-square. Findings of the study showed that interest of pupils in sport is high and by more training,they will do well in sports. The core reason for participating in sports was identified as learning the sport skills while winning was not a setback to participation. The main hinderances to participation were physiological factors and restrictions during playtime. Appropriate recommendations were made based on the findings of this study.