Abstract:
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze feedback mechanisms used in POSSS: the
case of Nairobi County, Kenya.
Methodology: The study used a descriptive research design engaging both the qualitative and
quantitative approaches. A sample size of 18 schools with a total of 162 individuals was selected
consisting School Managers (SMs), Heads of Departments (HODs) and Presidents of the
Students‟ Councils (POSCO) - categories using stratified and purposive sampling methods. The
preferred data collection tools were questionnaires and an interview guide. Data was analysed
using both descriptive and inferential statistics
Results: Findings from the study indicated that private secondary schools use all the
communication channels; oral, written and electronic identified in the study even though some of
the channels are given greater emphasis in transmitting school information than others. The
findings also pointed to loopholes in feedback mechanisms since effective feedback was not
always obtained in Privately Owned Secondary Schools (POSSs). The study also showed that
websites as a communication tool was not effectively used since some POSSs had no websites,
and those that had, were not effective for various reasons. The findings implied that there existed
challenges in the use of email and hence email as a communication tool was ineffective.
Policy recommendation: The study recommended that future studies can then investigate
whether this status quo had changed. In addition, the study had contributed to communication
audit methodology because of its rigorous and methodical approach in verifying the existence
and effectiveness of communication in POSS promote idealized influence, intellectual
stimulation, inspiration motivation and individualized consideration as they influence
performance positively.
Keywords: communication channels, communication audit, internal publics
