Determinants of academic performance of pupils in Kenya Certificate of Primary Education examination in Wundanyi Division, Taita-Taveta County, Kenya

Abstract

In Kenya, national examinations results indicate that certain schools consistently perform better than others. Examination results over a period of five years (2007-2011) revealed that some public schools performed better than others in Wundanyi Division, Taita - Taveta County. It was found necessary to investigate the factors responsible for such trends.This study tried to establish factors influencing academic performance of pupils in K.C.P.E. Examination in Wundanyi Division, Taita-Taveta County.

These factors are related to the school, parents, teachers and the pupils themselves, Due to the exploratory nature of the study and the holistic approach that was undertaken both the school and the home environments were targeted as points of investigation. Multiple methods of data collection including three sets of questionnaires for the respondents as well as interview schedule, which facilitated gathering of the necessary information were used. The respondents included fourteen headteachers, thirty one class eight teachers,class eight pupils and a few parents.

Data analysis was done using SPSS programme where coding and tabulation utilised Frequencies, Percentages and Tables. Key findings suggest that all the four variables: parental, pupil, teacher and school related factors influence academic performance in the division. Poverty and ignorance among parents; inadequate teaching staff, heavy workload and absence of seminars/workshops among teachers; availability, adequacy and sufficiency of learning facilities and materials as well as pupils' own laxity, indiscipline and poor time management, among others, influence academic performance.

The study recommends that adequate physical facilities and instructional materials should be provided and maintained. Guidance and counselling sessions as well as peer tutoring should be encouraged among pupils to enable them sharpen their problem solving and communication skills. The study also recommends that adequate staffing, teacher housing and hardship allowance should be provided where necessary. Likewise, teachers' seminars, workshops and refresher courses need to be streamlined and continuous professional developinent of teachers put in place. Parents need to more devoted to their children's academic performance.

Based on research findings, the study suggests that future researchers should focus on influence of teachers in ensuring academic excellence in learning institutions. Similarly, further research needs to be done to establish why learning facilities and instructional materials are inadequate despite the government's effort in providing fund for the same. There is also need to carry out more research on a location and utilization of FPE funds to ensure effectiveness and efficiency. There is also need to look into policies regarding demarcation of hardship areas.