Influence of day primary schools on standard eight pupils’ academic performance in Mbooni west sub-county, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of day primary schools on standard eight pupils’ academic performance in Mbooni West Sub County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were: To determine the influence of a family’s economic income on standard eight pupils’ academic performance, establish the influence of parents’ level of education on standard eight pupils’ academic performance, determine the influence of parents’ occupation on standard eight pupils’ academic performance and to establish the influence of facilities/resources on standard eight pupils’ academic performance in Mbooni West Sub County. The respondents were randomly selected. Research instruments used in this study included questionnaires for standard eight teachers and pupils and interview schedules for head teachers. Quantitative data were analyzed and the results were presented using frequency tables, pie charts, bar graphs and percentages. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis, which in turn was analyzed by organizing data into themes, patterns and sub-topics. From the studyfindings, there was a significant negative influence of day primary schools on standard eight pupils’ academic performance. The researcher established that parents’ economic influence on pupils’ academic performance was either positive or negative depending on the parent’s SES. The researcher further established that parents’ level of education had a significant positive or negative influence on standard eight pupils’ academic performance. Parents’ high level of education tended to influence standard eight pupils’ academic performance positively. The researcher also established that parents’ occupation and facilities/resources at homes and school also influenced standard eight pupils’ academic performance either positively or negatively. The research findings imply that day primary schools have a significant negative influence on pupils’ academic performance. The researcher recommends establishment of boarding schools for pupils from low SES. The researcher also recommends that the government should engage in a serious campaign to create awareness for adult education for parents with low levels of education and dropouts. The researcher further recommends that head teachers and teachers from day primary schools carry on campaigns to educate their parents on the importance of supporting their children’s education. NGO’s and other education players should also come on board.