Abstract:
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to conduct a communication audit of the internal publics
of privately owned Secondary Schools (POSSs) in 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 POSSs 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 findings also pointed towards an existing communication gap in
the area of key communication indicators such as the non-existence of organization charts,
communication plans, clarity of responsibilities and reporting lines
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 POSSs
promote idealized influence, intellectual
stimulation, inspiration motivation and individualized consideration as they influence
performance positively.
