Influence of prefects' administrative role on students' discipline in public secondary schools in Masaba South district, Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to find out prefects' administrative role on students' discipline in public secondary schools in Masaba South District, Kenya. The study was guided by five objectives: to examine the selection procedure of prefects on students' discipline, to examine the roles undertaken by prefects on students' discipline, to examine the training programmes in schools for enhanced prefects' administration on students' discipline, to examine the strategies prefects use in dealing with challenges they face in the day-to-day administration of the students' affairs, and to examine decision making practices prefects employ on student's administration. The research questions were derived from these objectives. Literature related to the study was reviewed under the following categories: the concept and rationale of student discipline, the importance of prefects in school, students' involvement in decision-making, selection of prefects, training prefects in effective leadership and prefects and discipline.

This study employed a descriptive survey design. The study population consisted of 20 principals, 100 teachers and 200 form 3 students. Data was collected using questionnaire. A positive relationship was obtained with a coefficient of 0.753 for principals, 0.879 for teachers and 0.841 for students: The study established that prefects playa pivotal role on student's discipline and this can be improved with proper selection, job descriptions and basic training. The study also revealed that prefects undertake different roles delegated by the school administration. They also provide a useful link between the administration and the students. Therefore in tandem with the new constitution of Kenya, they should be involved in decisions that affect the students like selection of prefects among others.

The study recommended that the school administration should formulate and facilitate duties and responsibilities of respective prefects, have clear basic training programmes, involve students in. decisions that affect them and strengthen guidance and counseling departments to support the prefects where necessary. The study suggests further research in the following areas; a comparative study on the prefects' role in students' discipline in primary schools in Kenya, a comparative study on the influence of prefects' administrative role in students' discipline in private secondary schools, an assessment of the performance of the student leaders in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education and this kind of study can be replicated in other areas.