A survey of the learning resource materials in selected primary schools in Nairobi; management organization and use

Abstract

The researchers aim was to survey the learning resource facilities and materials with emphasis on available types, sources of finance, management, organization and use. This study also attempted to establish human resources, personnel available and the problems associated with them in primary schools.

The study was carried out using a simple survey design where questionnaires, interviews and observation were used. The research was done in we4sten, eastern and northern divisions of Nairobi city commission. The sample consisted of heads of schools, teacher librarians, classroom teachers and standard 6-7 pupils.

Information gathered was then analyzed and presented as percentages and this was then interpreted.

The findings gave a number of revelations. The showed that there is shortage of teaching and library personnel. There is poor organization of teaching and learning resource materials for use. It was also shown that there are more learning resource materials in primary schools within the Nairobi city commission than in the schools in rural areas.

It was also found lot that while head s of schools attach importance on use of learning resource materials, they see libraries in the context of language development per se. Teachers use both book media and non-book media in teaching although little planning is done for the latter.

Lastly, suggestions to alleviate the problems related to management organization and use of learning resource materials were given. It was suggested that there is need for an independent department to be formed, to train manpower were, coordinate and standardize school librarianship. To develop good reading habits, pupils should be taught use of books from early stages.