Factors Affecting the Enrolment of Students in Geography in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya

Abstract

The main objective of the study was to determine the relationship between availability and use of teaching/learning resources and enrolment in the subject. The study adopted a survey design. The target population consisted of Form III students, geography teachers and the head teachers of the thirty-one public secondary schools in Nyamira District, Kenya. Proportionate random sampling was used to sample 10 geography teachers, 10 geography head teachers and 274 students (total 294).Questionnaires were used to gather data from students and teachers while interview schedules were used on head teachers. Correlation techniques were used to analyse quantitative data. Inferences were used to analyse qualitative data. Study findings revealed that teacher’s professional qualification and experience, head teacher’s attitude, availability of teaching personnel and resources positive effects on enrolment. To improve the enrolment in geography the study recommended: regular in-servicing of teachers be done to ensure quality; standardized teaching and learning resources be made available in schools; training of teachers be done in a manner that conforms with the current trends in education; improved teacher deployment and supply; and measures to put in place to ensure every child is taught by only professionally trained and qualified teachers.