Factors influencing participation of female teachers in distance education programmes: a case of public primary schools in Gatundu South District, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing participation of women in distance education programmes among public primary schools in Gatundu district Kenya. Three research questions were formulated to guide the study. The study employed a descriptive survey design. The target population of the study was 324 female teachers who have attended or were attending the distance education programme. The sample comprised of90 (ninety) female teachers.

The data was collected using a semi structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed by use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings revealed that cost, flexibility and accessibility of the programme made many female teachers chose the mode of study, where majority were able acquire education at their own pace, they were able to keep their jobs as they studied. In the light of the research findings it recommended that the government through the Higher Education Loans Board should consider the possibilities of widening extending loans to distance learners, government through the Teachers service commission should enhance opportunities for teacher's promotion on completion of the course .

The researcher suggested that a study on challenges that hinder the smooth running of the distance education degree programmes should be conducted and also a study to establish if there is any significant difference between regular and external students in academic achievements be conducted.