Influence of Learner-Related Factors on Learners’ School Access and Participation in Central Division of Narok County, Kenya.

Abstract

Education plays a critical role in human development yet some learners’ school participation and access in Kenya tend to be inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to establish the learnerrelated factors that influence learners’ school access and participation in Central Division of Narok County, Kenya. The study was conducted in public primary and secondary schools in central Division of Narok County. Descriptive Survey Research Design was employed and stratified random sampling technique was used to select the schools from the Division. The study respondents were selected using simple random sampling. The sample included 48 teachers, 8secondary school principals, 24 primary school head teachers, 68 class eight pupils and 44form one students. Data was collected using questionnaires. A pilot test was conducted in one secondary and three primary schools. Testretest reliability method was employed to establish the reliability and stability of the instruments. A correlation co-efficient of 0.77 was obtained using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. The results indicated that physical condition of the learner, use of drugs, learners’ attitude towards school, learners’ age and their maturity, gender influence their access and participation in school. The study recommended promotion of policies and practices that maximize inclusion. Open and flexible practices should be incorporated in curriculum implementation, giving consideration to equity, diversity and opportunity for all learners. Teachers should be empowered through continuous professional development activities such as refresher training to equip them with skills which motivate learners to learn and be retained in school.