Impact of learning resources on performance in Kenya certificate of primary education: a case of Nyamira district, Nyamira county.
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Date
2013-02-22
Authors
Nyamongo, Jane Kwamboka
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Abstract
PrimaryEducation is the foundation for literacy and the acquisition of basic skills, social
attitudes and values that make life important in society. Although some studies have
shownthat facilities and teaching/learning resources and teacher ratios are contribu.ting
factorsfor educational performances in primary schools, the impact oflearning resources
onperformance remains unclear. The purpose of this study was therefore, to investigate
the influence of li~ing resources on performance in Kenya Certificate of Primary
Educatioo in public schools in Nyamira County using Production Function Theory.
Spe~Jy, the study aimed to establish impact of teacher-pupil ratio, to determine
enrolment-classrooms ratio in Nyamira District. This study is expected to assist policy
makers to come up with new policies to improve performance in Kenya Certificate of
Primary Education. The study employed a descriptive survey design from randomly
selectedpublic primary schools. This design was appropriate in gathering facts, opinions,
knowledge and attitude of people, The population comprised all 96 public primary
schools in Nyamira District. A sample of 29 schools was used, which was 30 percent of
thetarget population. The questionnaires, observation and checklist were used as research
instruments. The .questionnaires were delivered to the respondents of the participating
schoolsby the researcher herself. Piloting was conducted in three schools that were not
part of the sample to avoid the, schools influencing the end product of study. However,
thepiloting of the three schools determined the reliability and validity of the instruments.
Quantitative data collected were tabulated and analyzed using descriptive statistics such
as mean, percentages and the results were presented in the form of graphs and tables.
Qualitative data was analyzed by organizing data into the major themes according to the
research questions. Inferences; recommendations and conclusions were drawn. Study
fmdings indicated that in most of the participating schools, the classes were overcrowded
with insufficient learning resources hampering quality teaching leading to a
continued general negative trend in performance since 2004. It is evident that school
perfmmance is therefore influenced by the learning resources, such as teacher-pnpil ratio,
infrastructures, and school enrolment classroom ratio. For this reasons the causes of poor
performance should be traced and proper channels for improving performance to be
accomplished. The study recommends that the active involvement of teachers, parents
and other stakeholders enhances the effectiveness of the in-school team. The support. of
stakeholdershas positive and pervasive effects on the child's success in school.
Description
Educational Management Policy and Curriculum Studies,2010