An investigation of the headteachers' perception of career guidance in public secondary schools in Kajiado district

Abstract

Students in secondary school level of education are required to make choices that shape the rest of their lives. Students in secondary schools are required to make choices affect the rest of their lives. They need information to make realistic choices. A functional and effective career guidance service is essential in school. The headteacher is responsible for ensuring there is a functional career guidance service in school hence his perception is important. This study set out to investigate the headteachers' perceptions of career guidance in public secondary schools in Kajiado District. The study sought to find out whether personal variables headteachers perception of career guidance in secondary schools. The study further sought to identify the approaches used in career guidance in schools. The study also sought to identify problems that constrained career guidance in schools and the way the solutions to the problems. The literature review discussed the need and importance of career guidance in a school. Career guidance was seen as not only important in assisting students select subject combination and making career choices but also improving students decisive skills. The role of the headteacher in career guidance was also was highlighted. From the literature review a conceptual framework was designed showing the role of the headteacher as useful link between career guidance and other agencies that had information required by the students The study used an ex post facto research design. One questionnaire for headteachers was used as the instrument for collecting data. A total of 14 headteachers returned the filled questionnaire. Data was analyzed using frequencies, percentages and mean perception. The study found that headteachers of public secondary schools in Kajiado District had relevant academic and professional qualifications and had enough administrative experience. Headteachers strongly perceived there was need for career guidance in schools however they did not perceive as important the aspects of career guidance programme which determine its effectiveness in secondary schools. This included allocating time, funds, and room to career guidance. The findings also indicated that headteachers and guidance teachers were not trained in career . guidance. The findings also indicated that there was need to post trained people to all schools. The following recommendations are made from the findings Headteachers and career guidance teachers be trained 111 guidance skills. 2 It is recommended that regular seminars and workshops be held for headteachers and career guidance teachers. This would ensure they are updated on post school opportunities and new trends in the job market 3. Career guidance booklets be revised and distributed to all secondary schools. The following areas are suggested for further research 1. This study involved the head teacher as respondents In obtaining information on career guidance in schools. The information can be expounded further by including students and career guidance teachers as respondents. 2. This study was carried out in Kajiado District which is a predominantly a rural district. It is therefore recommended that a replication of this study be carried out in an urban setting. 3. It is suggested that a study be carried out on the relationship between career guidance and students performance.