Factors influencing the choice of Geography as an examinable subject in (K.C.S.E) level in Meru central district in Kenya.

Abstract

Since geography aims at enabling the learner to have knowledge about the natural and human environment and sustainable development, adequate preparation of students in the subject is essential. The purpose of this study was to investigate factors influencing the choice of Geography as an examinable subject in (K.C.S.E) .The study was conducted in Abothuguchi West division of Meru Central district. The study adopted survey design the target population consisted of form three students, Geography teachers and the head teachers of forty eight secondary students in Abothuguchi West division of Meru Central district .A sample of eighteen secondary schools was selected from the population using proportionate random sampling in the zone. The study proportionately sampled 352 students, 18 geography teachers and 12 head teachers from the sampled schools. The total number of respondents for the study was 382 Detailed questionnaires’ were used to gather data from students and teachers while interview schedules were used on head teachers’. The main findings of the study are as follows: Resource availability does influence enrolment in Geography subject greatly. Better equipped schools were found to have enrolled more students in Geography than those poorly equipped. Availability of enough teaching personnel in schools is a key factor to enrolment in geography as well. Based on these findings of the study, the study makes various recommendations to improve on the enrolment of students in geography. First there is need to improve the library facilities specifically, schools need to be equipped with adequate books and reference with currents content. The study further recommends change of methodology in teaching; the syllabus should be made practical. Field work and field