scholarly journals Inclusive Teaching-Learning Strategies to Meet Academic Needs of Learners with Special Needs in Kenya (A Case of Kakamega East Sub-county)

2016 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
pp. 119
Author(s):  
Otundo Denis Tsisindu ◽  
Okutoyi Joel ◽  
Khasakhala Edward
Keyword(s):  
Special Needs ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Primary Schools ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Test Method ◽  
Academic Needs ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
Study Objective ◽  
Inclusive Teaching ◽  
Teaching Learning

<div><p><em>The national education system has been characterised by inadequate educational management practices and facilities that do not respond well to the challenges faced by Learners with Special Needs (LWSNs). These learners are gradually and deliberately pushed out of the school system because schools are not sensitive to their learning styles and background. The purpose of this study was therefore to assess the extent to which inclusive teaching-learning strategies were employed to meet academic needs of learners with special needs in public primary schools in Kakamega East Sub-county. The study objective was to; determine the extent to which the teaching and learning strategies were employed to meet the academic needs of learners with special needs in primary schools. The study was based on the theory of Normalisation and it made use of the descriptive survey research design. The target population was 90 head teachers, 999 teachers and one Educational Assessment and Resource Centre (EARC) coordinator. </em><em>The schools were stratified according to zones</em><em> and simple random sampling was used to select, 18 head teachers and 200 teachers, while the EARC coordinator was selected by the purposive sampling technique. Instruments for data collection were the questionnaires, interview schedules and document analysis. Content validity was used to determine the validity of the research instruments while the test-re-test method was used to test reliability using the Pearson Product moment of correlation coefficient (r) value. Data was then analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics and the results were presented in form of frequency tables. The research findings revealed that teachers</em><em> lack relevant skills to meet the academic needs of LWSNs and they rarely address learners’ needs through the individualised education programmes (IEP)</em><em>. The researcher recommended that regular inspections should be carried out in schools as a follow up measure of ensuring that inclusive education and its management practices are implemented to the latter. Teachers who are not trained in special needs education (SNE) should be given an opportunity to undergo training so as to equip them with the necessary skills and attitudes towards LWSNs. IEP need to be developed for every learner with specialneeds in learning, learners with special needs need to be involved in class activities.  </em></p></div>

scholarly journals USAGE OF SELECTED RESOURCES FOR INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN MAINSTREAM PRIMARY SCHOOLS: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES FROM A KENYAN PERSPECTIVE

2013 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 16-24
Author(s):  
Pamela Buhere ◽  
Pamela Ochieng
Keyword(s):  
Special Needs ◽  
Inclusive Education ◽  
Primary Schools ◽  
Survey Design ◽  
School Setting ◽  
Learning Resources ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
Regular Teachers ◽  
The Government ◽  
Teaching Learning

This study assessed the effectiveness of the use of selected teaching/learning resources in the implementation of Inclusive Education (I.E) for Special Needs Education (SNE) learners in mainstream primary schools. Focusing on the organisational effectiveness of the school management in meeting the needs of Special needs Learners, research questions explored the following: the availability of the selected teaching/learning resources, effectiveness of the use of available teaching /learning for Inclusive Education, challenges in the use of available teaching/learning resources and possible improvements with regard to the implementation of Inclusive Education for Special Needs Learners in mainstream primary schools. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. Out of 150 schools that had integrated Special Needs Learners in Bungoma Count, Kenya, 20% were stratified, proportionately and randomly sampled. Purposive sampling was used to obtain the participants; head teachers, regular, and special teachers. The sample comprised of 30 head teachers, 120 regular teachers and 8 special teachers (total 158). Data were collected using questionnaires for 30 head teachers, 120 regular teachers, interview schedules for 8 special teachers and observation schedule. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study findings reveal that the integration of inclusive education has not been accompanied by support structures; educators lack the knowledge in handling the available resources, the available learning resources are inadequate and inappropriate. The study recommends that Ministry of education and school managers can implement inclusion smoothly and effectively through a variety of vehicles including in-service opportunities, professional support groups, mentoring activities, monitoring the degree of collaboration between general and special educators and improving the school setting to accommodate learner diversity. In addition, the government should improve on funding to cater for facilities and modification of structures. Key words: inclusive education, special needs learners, teaching/learning resources.

scholarly journals Teachers Involvement in Creation of Awareness to Members of School Community on Inclusive Education Practice in Regular Primary Schools in Siaya County

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 27
Author(s):  
Odeny Michael O. Lumumba ◽  
Odek Aloys Ayungo ◽  
Adoyo Peter Oracha
Keyword(s):  
Special Needs ◽  
Inclusive Education ◽  
Primary Schools ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
School Community ◽  
Test Method ◽  
Face Validity ◽  
Policy Framework ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
School Communities

<em>Inclusive education is a process that involves the transformation of regular schools to become accessible to all learners regardless of their diverse needs. Teachers’ involvement in this transformation is significant in sensitizing members of the school community to fully participate in inclusive education practices in their respective schools. Lack of awareness about inclusive education practices has been captured in the Kenya national special needs policy framework of 2009 as a common problem. Preliminary information indicates that there is low level of advocacy and lobbying among the regular teachers, parents, communities and ministry of education officials on inclusive education practices. Baseline information shows that 48(7.52%) regular schools in Siaya County still practice integration and learners enrolled in the special units hardly transit to mainstream classes. The rate at which learners with special needs access regular education in the county is equally very low. This is despite the presence of teachers with background training in inclusive education in the county.  The purpose of the study was to determine teachers’ involvement in awareness creation on inclusive education practices. Objectives of the study were to: -establish the methods teachers use to create awareness on inclusive education to members of the school communities; determine the frequency with which teachers created awareness among the members of the school communities and determine teachers’ involvement in awareness creation on inclusive education. Descriptive survey research design was used for the study. The population comprised of 216 teachers and 72 head teachers. Out of which 10% were used for piloting.  Saturated sampling technique was employed to select 194 teachers and 65 head teachers for the study.  Instruments for data collection included Questionnaires, Interview Schedule, Observation Guide and Document Analysis. Content and face validity of the instruments were determined by experts in the school of education and their comments and recommendations were used to determine the validity of the instruments.  Reliability of the instruments was established through test re-test method and correlation coefficients of 0.76 and 0.78 were obtained for teachers and head teachers respectively at a level of significance of 0.05.  Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics while qualitative data was transcribed and categorized into emergent themes. The study established that teachers mostly used school forums, seminars and workshops as the main methods of creating awareness to members and that they rarely create awareness to members. The result also indicated that teachers were involved in creation of awareness to members of the school communities to a fairly small extent. The study concluded that teachers were involved in creation of awareness but not to a level that was encouraging. The study recommended that:-teachers still need to intensify the creation of awareness to members of the school community especially to parents and local members of the community for them to fully participate in inclusive education practices.</em>

scholarly journals IMPACT OF AUDIO-VISUAL AIDS ON TEACHING LEARNING PROCESS OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE AT PRIMARY LEVEL

2020 ◽  
Vol 01 (01) ◽  
pp. 71-77
Author(s):  
Irfan Ullah Khan ◽  
Muhammad Saqib Khan ◽  
Haroon Rehan
Keyword(s):  
Learning Process ◽  
Primary Schools ◽  
English Language ◽  
English Language Teaching ◽  
Visual Aids ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
Primary Level ◽  
International Language ◽  
Study Population ◽  
Teaching Learning

English is an international language and plays a pivotal role in our education system that is why different methods are used for English language teaching learning process at primary level to improve learning teaching process, that is why the present study was conducted to highlight the audio-visual aids’ role in process of teaching learning at the level of primary education. All the teachers and head teachers of Southern Districts Primary schools in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were study population. The study sample consisted of 100 head-teachers (50 female and 50 male) and 300 teachers (150 males & 150 females). By nature, the study was survey, researcher developed personally instrument to collect data from respondents and thus analyzed, tabulated, and construed the data in the light of study objectives. The statistical tools like mean and SD were used for data analysis. The present study highlighted that audio visual aids make the learners able learn English language easily and in an interested way.

scholarly journals A Health-Check of Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) in Rural Primary Schools of Bangladesh

2018 ◽  
Vol 11 (7) ◽  
pp. 163
Author(s):  
Mohammed Shamsul Hoque ◽  
Rozhan M. Idrus ◽  
Yousuf Mahbubul Islam
Keyword(s):  
Teacher Training ◽  
Learning Environment ◽  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Primary Schools ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Instructional Materials ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
Instructional Module ◽  
Teaching Learning ◽  
English Subject

Bangladesh ELT situation has been deteriorating for the last four decades. Regional and national projects including ELTIP and EIA proved to be futile in improving this situation, especially, in the Bangladesh rural primary schools with almost 0% properly trained English teachers to implement the current CLT curriculum. This article investigates the on-going poor health-status of CLT at randomly selected schools of northern Bangladesh through delving into the research gaps linked with the ELT practitioners’ own English proficiency, their training needs, motivation and teaching skills; their perception on the instructional module; and perception of the YLs of English in Bangladesh. This enquiry uses a mixed method involving a questionnaire survey, semi-structured interview with ELT teachers, teacher trainers, head-teachers and lesson observation followed by a workshop and informal discussion with 100 participants from all ELT stake-holders to validate the findings of the earlier questionnaire survey. The findings conclude that ineffective and lack of teacher training, non-availability of English subject teacher, unproductive instructional materials, unhelpful learning environment, learners’ socio-economic background, teachers’ poor competence in English and knowledge of CLT methods are responsible for this deterioration. It recommends that implementation of a rigorous teacher training program for CLT to produce English subject teachers for each school, production of a pedagogically user-friendly instructional module for CPD, a culture-oriented teaching-learning environment and a program of regular guidance and supervision by CLT experts would address the gaps prevailing in the ELT (and CLT) situation at the rural primary schools of Bangladesh.

scholarly journals Instructional Materials’ Effect on Learners’ Literacy Among Public Pre-Primary II in Webuye West Sub-County, Kenya

2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 86-91
Author(s):  
Stephen Tomno Cheboi ◽  
Irene Naliaka Nyongesa
Keyword(s):  
Primary Schools ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Literacy Skills ◽  
Test Method ◽  
Instructional Materials ◽  
County Government ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
Interview Guide ◽  
Descriptive Survey

Unavailability of instructional materials inhibits the acquisition of literacy competencies among learners at pre-primary level. This study sought to find out how the availability of instructional materials influences learners’ literacy among Pre-Primary II learners in public primary schools in Webuye West Sub-County. Descriptive survey research design that adopted mixed methods approach was used. A population of 3,216 respondents that comprised 55 headteachers and their deputies, 109 pre-primary II teachers and 2,997 pre-primary II learners was engaged in the study. From these, a sample of 86 pre-primary II teachers and 341 pre-primary II learners were randomly drawn while 48 head teachers and 48 deputies were sampled using purposive sampling technique. The researcher collected data using questionnaires from deputy headteachers and pre-primary II teachers, interview guide from headteachers and observation schedule from pre-primary II learners. The questionnaires were piloted using test re-test method and a reliable Cronbach correlation alpha index of 0.79 computed. The instruments were adequately validated. Quantitative data was analysed and presented on tables while qualitative data was analysed thematically as guided by the research objectives. The study found out that schools in the study area did not provide adequate and appropriate instructional materials that would equip learners with literacy skills. It further found out that inadequacy of instructional materials affected the acquisition of literacy skills in pre-school learners. The study recommends that the National and County government should provide adequate teaching and learning materials to enhance the acquisition of literacy skills among pre-primary II learners in public primary schools in Webuye West Sub-County. It also recommends that a similar study is carried out in other areas and consider using a larger population and include more variables such as the role of the teacher in influencing learners’ acquisition of literacy skills in pre-primary II level.

scholarly journals Assessment of Availability and Use of Teaching and Learning Resources for Retention of Learners with Special Needs in Regular Primary Schools in Dadaab Sub-County, Kenya

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (2) ◽  
pp. 112
Author(s):  
Dure Mohammed Osman ◽  
Oracha P. A. ◽  
Okutoyi Joel
Keyword(s):  
Special Needs ◽  
Inclusive Education ◽  
Primary Schools ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Retention Rate ◽  
Regular Neighborhood ◽  
Learning Resources ◽  
Learning Materials ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
The Status

The status of implementation of inclusive education in terms of availability and use of teaching and learning resources for retention of learners with special needs in Garissa County was unknown. Inclusive education refers to a situation where learners with disabilities and special educational needs have full membership in age-appropriate classes in their regular neighborhood schools with appropriate supplementary aids and support services. Records from Educational Assessment and Resource Centres (EARC) Garissa County revealed that there was a decline in the retention rate of learners` admitted. For example, in the year 2014, the retention rate was 37 learners (45.7%), 2015 (114 learners, 38.0%), 2016 (43 learners, 28.9%), 2017 (35 learners, 31.5%) and 2018 (41 learners, 23.7%). The purpose of the study was to assess the status of implementation of inclusive education practices for the retention of learners with special needs in regular primary schools in Dadaab sub-county. The specific objective of the study was to establish the extent to which the availability and use of teaching and learning resources affect the retention of learners with special needs in regular primary schools in Dadaab sub-county. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised 26 head-teachers, 78 teachers, 300 learners with special needs, and 4 education officers. Saturated sampling technique was used to select 23 head-teachers, 70 teachers, 100 learners with special needs, and 4 education officers. Instruments for data collection were questionnaires, interview schedules and observation schedules. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, and mean. The findings of the study indicated that the availability and use of teaching and learning materials were inadequate (mean= 2.18). The study concluded that the low retention of learners with special needs as a result of the availability and use of teaching and learning materials to a small extent.  The study recommended that the country and national government should ensure that there is adequate provision of teaching and learning resources to enhance learning for learners with special needs. The budget for materials should be enhanced. The study also recommends to non-governmental organizations to assist regular primary schools to access teaching and learning materials that can be used by learners with special needs.

scholarly journals EXAMINATION OF THE ADEQUACY OF RESOURCES PREPAREDNESS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF INTEGRATION OF DIGITAL LEARNING IN PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN MERU COUNTY, KENYA

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 50-76
Author(s):  
Dr David Kaaria Kiugu ◽  
Dr Tarsilla Kibaara ◽  
Dr Rebecca Wachira
Keyword(s):  
Primary Schools ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Learning Resources ◽  
Unique Contribution ◽  
Digital Learning ◽  
Monitoring And Control ◽  
Validity And Reliability ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
Study Objective ◽  
Digital Learning Resources

Purpose: Digital learning integration (DLI) in schools has positive implications for the education systems. DLI programme was rolled out in Meru County alongside other 46 counties in Kenya in 2016 after several postponements. However, DLI programme adoption is attributed to preparation challenges. This study examined the adequacy of resources on implementation of DLI programme in public primary schools in Meru County. Methodology: The study was guided by Roger’s diffusion of innovation theory and Boum’s project management cycle. The study used descriptive survey design and adopted mixed method approach. The study targeted 710 public primary schools in 9 sub-counties. Data was provided by 710 head teachers, 7032 teachers, 2004 Parent Teachers Association (PTA) executive members, and 25,720 grade 3 DLI programme pioneer pupils. A 10% sample of schools was considered sufficient which was obtained using simple random sampling technique. As a result, 71 head teachers and 703 teachers were obtained. Purposive judgmental sampling technique was used to get 201 PTA members. Further, Sloven’s formula was used to get a sample size of 396 pupils that formed Focus Group Discussion (FGD) each consisting of 8 learners, and 9 SCDEs were purposively sampled. Questionnaires were used to collect data from head teachers, teachers and PTA while interview schedules and FGDs were used to get data from SCDEs and from learners respectively. Observational schedule was also used to provide guide for focusing observation and recording data. The research tools were pre-tested for validity and reliability. The quantitative data was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows version 22. The data was analyzed, interpreted and reported using percentages, measures of central tendency. Univariate regression analysis was used to test hypothesis. Qualitative data was analyzed according to themes based on study objective and reported in narratives. Findings: Through computation of Pearson product moment correlation coefficients confirmed that there is significant positive correlation (r = 0.825) between variable adequacy of digital learning resources against DLI at 0.05 level of significance. Resources such as tablets, internet connectivity, computer laboratory and electricity were noted to be inadequate. Learners who were introduced to DLI appreciated and were always eager to learn using the available digital technology resources. In addition, there was no monitoring or evaluation of the digital programme after roll out by quality assurance and standards officers as per the policy guidelines. The study concluded that preparations for digital programme were inadequate. The findings will be useful to educationists, parents, teachers, and policy makers. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommended that MoE should go back to the drawing board and come up with proactive measures on provision of digital learning resources. Adequate resources such as tablets, desks, computer laboratories, network connectivity and electricity among others should be availed to all schools. Tablets available are too few to be distributed to pupils during this period of COVID-19 pandemic leading to resource wastage.  MoE should own the innovation and facilitate its full adoption by coming up with apt monitoring and control systems. Political objectives should not be allowed to overshadow policy structures such as planning, management and administrative processes.

Challenges of Decentralization of Primary Education in Bukedea District

2019 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-14
Author(s):  
Alphonse Horrai Alumu ◽  
Amina Hassan
Keyword(s):  
Financial Management ◽  
Primary Schools ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Survey Design ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Head Teachers ◽  
Supervision Practices ◽  
Analyse Data

The study was about decentralization challenges in Government Aided Primary Schools in Bukedea District. The objectives were; to identify the challenges of decentralized supervision practices and assess the challenges of decentralized financial management practices. The study used both qualitative and quantitative approaches and employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A sample size of 329 respondents were selected out of a population of 781, these were 1 District Education Official, 4 District Inspectors of Schools, 248 School Management Committee Members and 76 head teachers. The study used a questionnaire, interview guide and documentary reviews to collect data. Descriptive statistics was to analyse data; and challenges of the decentralized supervision practices were found to include: inadequate supervision mechanisms, insufficient funding for supervision processes, inadequate formal training on effective supervision, inadequate linkage of supervision objectives to performance of teachers and limited numbers of supervisors. The decentralized financial challenges included: insufficient funds, delayed quarterly government release of funds, and lack of financial cost sharing practices. The study recommended that head teachers and district education supervisors need to adopt supervision practices that are fully linked to performance at both school and district level, and district education officials ought to roll out massive financial management strategies to help head teachers deal with such challenges.

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