Influence Of Teachers’ Characteristics On Perfomance Of English Language In Primary Schools In Embu West Sub- County Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to establish the influence of teachers of English language on performance of English Language in primary schools in Embu West District. The objectives of this study were to find out how academic qualification of the English teacher influences performance, how the teaching methodology influence the performance of English language and how gender of English teacher influence the performance of the English in primary schools in Embu West Districts. The target population was 60 primary schools, both private and public, in Central and Nembure divisions in Embu West District. The schools were to be separated into two strata-private and public. The study population was simple random sampling selected to make 10 head teachers, 20 teachers of English and 650 pupils. Constructed questionnaires were the sole research instruments. Reliability of instruments was established through a pilot study. Quantitative data was analyzed by use of tables, means, percentages, charts whereas qualitative data was transcribed in categories and themes based on the objectives. In the recent studies cross- national studies conducted to identify flaws in the quality of education offered in many countries, English language has featured as important subject. In Kenya, English language is a medium of instructions for all subjects except Kiswahili. Proper skills, attitudes and knowledge ought to be impacted to learner’s right from early childhood education classes. The English variety used in Kenya is derived from British though American English is acceptable mainly in information Technology circles. The performance of English in National Examinations level often reflects the teacher’s role in instructing, socializing, communicating and exposing pupils to language. Reading far and wide on environmental, economic and social issues makes pupils better in handling the language. Fair and firm administrations lead to enhanced results. The study recommended teaching of English language by well educated teachers using a variety of instructional methods. Further research should be carried out on other parts of the country on characteristics on the teachers of English language