Thesis

Factors influencing the integration of ICT in teaching and learning in public primary schools in Kitui West Subcounty, Kenya

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Factors influencing the integration of ICT in teaching and learning in public primary schools in Kitui West Subcounty, Kenya Munyoki, Jacinta Kathini Many experts argue that simply installing technological gadgets and infrastructure will not automatically result in ICT integration in learning until the teacher, who is a significant element in ICT integration, is addressed. This study examined teachers' attitudes, computer literacy, and the availability of resources in technology integration in public primary schools' teaching in Kitui West Sub County, Kitui County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to establish the influence of teachers' attitudes on the integration of ICT in teaching and learning, Kitui West Sub-County; to determine the influence of teachers' computer literacy on teaching and learning, Kitui West Sub-County; and to determine the influence of availability of resources on the integration of ICT in teaching and learning in Kitui County, Kitui West Sub-County. This study's findings would help education stakeholders like teachers, parents, ministry officials, donors and sponsors to help solve the identified challenges impending proper integration of ICT into teaching and learning. The findings would also be critical in policy policy-making related to integrating ICT in schools. In theory, the study was guided by The Open System Theory model. The researcher applied a descriptive study approach targeting 81 head teachers and 730 teachers in all 81 Kitui West Sub County public primary schools. A random stratified sampling approach based on 24 head teachers and 220 teachers was employed in the study. Questionnaires and interviews from teachers and head teachers were used for data collection. Test-retest was applied to ascertain the reliability of the teachers' questionnaire. Two supervisors allocated to the researcher helped ascertain content and construct validity. The researcher used descriptive and inferential statistics for data analysis and tested the formulated null hypothesis using multiple regression analysis. These tests included averages, proportions, R-statistics, ANOVA, p-values, and coefficients. The researcher also analyzed questionnaires and the consecutive presentment made via frequencies and percentages. The findings obtained after the study would be applied in formulating more pragmatic policies that would obligate primary school teachers to demonstrate and make a periodical report on the progress of ICT integration in teaching and learning in Kitui West Sub County-Kitui County. The R-Statistics results show that the R2 of the model was 0.0214 and the model p-value was 0.1969 which was insignificant. The results also indicated that all three factors studied positively impacted ICT integration in teaching and learning, with the availability of resources having the lowest impact at a coefficient of 0.02. It was also found that the factors had an insignificant impact on the dependent variable, as indicated by their p-values, and evaluated based on a 5% significance level. The p-values obtained were 0.1400, 0.1446 and 0.6554 for teachers' attitudes, 'computer literacy, and availability of resources, respectively. The conclusion was, therefore, that the three factors had a positive insignificant impact on the integration of ICT in teaching and learning in public primary schools in Kitui West Sub-County.

Correlates of effective guidance and counseling programmes in public primary schools in Kajiado North, Kajiado County, Kenya

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Correlates of effective guidance and counseling programmes in public primary schools in Kajiado North, Kajiado County, Kenya Gichaba, Daphine Nyabete Guidance is the process of assisting learners to recognize their potentials. It aims at encouraging self-esteem and the development of various aspects of ‘self’, such as personal, social, and moral. Counseling, on the other hand, is the process of helping an individual explore difficulties experienced in life so as to make informed decisions that will lead towards a more satisfying life. Despite the fact that Kajiado Sub County public primary schools record high incidences of pupils’ absenteeism, alcohol and drugs abuse, psychosocial and teenage sexuality issues, G&C activities are very minimal. The purpose of this study was to examine the correlates of effective G&C programmes in public primary schools in Kajiado Sub County, Kajiado County, Kenya. The study objectives were to establish the relationship between G&C teacher preparedness and effectiveness of G&C programmes, to determine the relationship between availability of G&C programme resources and effectiveness of G&C programmes, and to examine the relationship between the head teachers’ support and effectiveness of G&C programmes in public primary schools in Kajiado North Sub County. The study was anchored on the Rogerian client-centred therapy theory which emphasizes on the importance of the individual in seeking assistance, controlling their destiny, and overcoming their difficulties. Descriptive survey and correlational research designs were adopted. The study population comprised of 28 G&C teachers, and 14 head teachers. All the 28 G&C teachers, and 14 head teachers were sampled for the study. Data were collected through G&C teachers’ questionnaires, head teachers interview guides and G&C resources observation schedules. Items from data collection instruments were reviewed for content validity by the two university supervisors. Pilot study was conducted among public primary schools in the neighbouring Kajiado East Sub County. Reliability of quantitative items in the questionnaires were established by computing Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Quantitative data were analyzed by use of descriptive statistics such as percentages, means, standard deviation, bar graphs, line graphs and frequencies. The Pearson Product Moment correlation coefficient analysis and chi-square were used for hypotheses testing. Qualitative data was thematically analysed as per the three objectives of the study. It is expected that the study findings will create impetus for the education stakeholders to focus their synergies on the much needed guidance and counselling at the primary school level. The study recommends that the training of G&C teachers in Kenya should be harmonized and be based on clearly defined competencies as opposed to the current situation where teacher counsellors are trained at different levels with varied curricula.

A comparative analysis of the impact of voluntary and involuntary attendance in rehabilitation centers on substance use disorder relapse rates in Gilgil Sub-County, Nakuru County

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

A comparative analysis of the impact of voluntary and involuntary attendance in rehabilitation centers on substance use disorder relapse rates in Gilgil Sub-County, Nakuru County Kinuthia, Charles Muturi The problem of drug abuse has become a major source of concern to both the government and society in Kenya. Substances abused include alcohol which is the substance that is most abused and other legal and illegal substances. Inpatient rehabilitation programs for patients with substance use disorder have been the accepted method of treating the disorder. However, efforts aimed at rehabilitating addicts using the ninety-day residential treatment regime often fail as those who go through the program often go on to relapse. In many of the cases relapse had occurred more than once following the three months program. The purpose of the study was to find out the effect of voluntary and involuntary attendance to rehabilitation centers on relapse rates in Gilgil Sub-County of Nakuru County. The objectives of the study are to examine the effect of voluntary treatment in rehabilitation centers on relapse rates in Gilgil sub-County; to assess the effect of enforced treatment in rehabilitation centers on relapse in Gilgil Sub-County. Enforced treatment can include coercion from family members, the government or the employer to ensure patients attended treatment in rehabilitation centers in Gilgil sub-County. The study was based on the Self Determination Theory which lays emphasis on human motivation as a factor in the decisions people make in their lives. The target population was estimated at 600 comprising male clients who had undergone the ninety day program in the last five years within Gilgil Sub-county by the time of the study and had stayed for at least three months since the completion of the program. A sample size of 86 former clients of rehabilitation centers was obtained using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and in-depth interview schedules. The data generated by questionnaires was analyzed descriptively by use of frequencies, percentages and means and inferentially by use of Pearson correlation and regression analysis. The researcher made use of electronic means to reach out to the respondents, including electronic mail and messaging. Qualitative data from interviews was subjected to content analysis. The findings indicated that of the 42 (48.84%) of the respondents who attended treatment voluntarily 17 (40.70%) remained sober for over a year, 11 (26.74%) were sober for 8-12 months, 5 (11.90%) remained sober for up to 7 months and 9 (21.40%) remained sober for 3 months. Of the 44 respondents whose attendance was involuntary, 11(25%) relapsed within three months of leaving the treatment facility, 26(59.09%) relapsed after three months, 4 (9.09%) have been on and off treatment, while 3 (6.81%) are under psychiatric care. The research concluded that voluntary attendance has a higher rate of success and should be encouraged, while the use of coercion should be avoided unless there is possibility of harm to the client and others. The beneficiaries of this study are the victims of substance abuse who have had to undergo forceful addiction treatment, families with members suffering from substance abuse, rehab administrators, therapists and the government of Kenya, all of whom have been grappling with the issues of relapse following addiction treatment for substance abusers and the social, economic implications of failed substance addiction treatment.

Assessing the performance of the Kenya coast guard service in enhancing maritime security in Homa Bay County, Kenya

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Assessing the performance of the Kenya coast guard service in enhancing maritime security in Homa Bay County, Kenya Namushi, Joab Obindah Maritime security has become increasingly significant in the monitoring and regulating of maritime operations. This underscores the need to assess the performance and effectiveness of the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) in ensuring maritime security, particularly in Homa Bay County, Kenya. To achieve this aim, the study was guided by the following specific objectives: to examine the activities undertaken by the KCGS in ensuring maritime security; to assess the effectiveness of these activities; to evaluate the legal framework governing the KCGS, and to identify the challenges faced by the KCGS in maintaining maritime security in Homa Bay County, Kenya. Co-management Theory and Institutional Theory guided the study. It adopted a mixed method research design focusing on a sample size of 128 participants from a target population of 273 in Homa Bay County, selected using Yamane’s sampling method. Data was gathered through questionnaires and in-depth interviews, collecting qualitative and quantitative data. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS v27 software to present the results in tables, while qualitative data was analysed thematically to identify emerging themes. This mixed-methods approach provided a more comprehensive understanding of stakeholder perspectives by capturing measurable trends and deeper contextual insights. The use of triangulation enhanced the validity and reliability of the findings. In particular, qualitative interviews facilitated exploring subjective experiences and institutional challenges that could not be captured through structured questionnaires alone. Integrating both forms of data bolstered the robustness of the conclusions drawn, ensuring that the results reflected the diverse views and realities of the respondents within the selected population. The study found that the Kenya Coast Guard Service is actively involved in maritime security, with its activities in Homa Bay County including surveillance, coastal defence, and policy leadership. Additionally, the study identified challenges such as insufficient funding, corruption, limited equipment, lax enforcement, and minimal community involvement that hinder the service's efficacy. Although respondents acknowledged the value of current legislative frameworks, they also pointed out deficiencies in inter-agency collaboration and training. The need for greater awareness, inclusive participation with local communities, and improved institutional accountability was also emphasised. A more organised and well-resourced strategy prioritising capacity training, policy adherence, and active community participation is vital to bolster maritime security and improve the operational efficiency of the KCGS.

Monitoring and evaluation process on performance of private residential building projects in Nairobi County Kenya

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Monitoring and evaluation process on performance of private residential building projects in Nairobi County Kenya Wanjira, Josphine Wawira The topic, study objectives, based on what theory, research methodology, target population, what was the sample and sampling process, data collection instruments, data analysis tools, findings, conclusion and recommendations. The overall objective of this study was to establish the influence of Monitoring and Evaluation Processes on performance of private building projects in Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were: To determine the effect of monitoring and evaluation planning on performance of private building projects, to examine the effect of stakeholders’ engagement on performance of private building projects, to assess the effect of capacity building on performance of private building projects and to establish the effect of utilization of M&E results on performance of private building projects in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was anchored in the Theory of Change and the Dynamic Capabilities Theory both of which were relevant with the study. A descriptive study design was adopted for the study. The sample size of the study consisted 526 respondents from construction firms, architectural firms’, quantity surveying firms and engineering consulting firms operating in Nairobi County. Data was collected by use of questionnaires that were administered to the respondents. The reliability coefficients for research instrument were above the threshold of 0.70. Data was analyzed both qualitatively and by use of inferential statistics. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented through percentages, means and frequencies. Inferential statistics analyses included the use of Correlation and regression analysis. The study found that there was a positive association between Monitoring and evaluation processes and performance of private building projects. The study established that there was a significant correlation between utilization of M&E Results and performance of construction companies with a P-Value of 0.000<0.05, there was a significant correlation between M & E Planning and Performance of Construction Projects with a P-Value of 0.000<0.05, there was a positive relationship between Stakeholder Engagement and Performance of Construction Projects with a P-Value of 0.000<0.05 and capacity building was a significant positive predictor of performance of construction projects with a P-Value of 0.000<0.05. The study concluded that M&E is vital in all phases of the project cycle and that if a construction project's M&E is properly carried out, it will give the management an accurate data (information) of the project progress and allow the management to identify the variation of the projects from the project management plan. The study finally concluded that M&E also aids in improving project management performance as they concentrate on enlisting all stakeholders through an informed monitoring and evaluation system, resulting in synergy and excellent output in the development of construction projects. Based on the findings that M&E planning has the highest correlation with project performance, it is here by recommended that a well thought out M&E plan needs to be in place and be fully implemented if project performance is to enhanced. From the findings, it shows that stakeholders’ engagement requires enhancement of relationships between parties, fostering and maintaining project support, collecting data for the organization, lowering the risk of conflict or other construction issues, and improving the organization's image which will result to enhance construction projects performance. This study therefore recommends that stakeholders’ engagement, is a must for M&E. The findings depicted that capacity building significantly influenced the level of performance of construction projects. This study recommends that to enhance capacity building requires the firms in the construction industry to have formal training to stakeholders which will improve client acceptance, create timely delivery, improve cost effectiveness and improve the organizations acceptance which will result to improvement in project performance. The findings depicted that utilization of M&E xiii results significantly influenced the level of performance of construction projects. The study recommends that the firms in the construction industry should M&E results which will help to obtain accurate data on the project progress. On suggestions of further areas of study, a similar study on the variables of the current study can be conducted in other organizations operating in Kenya for comparison purposes. Lastly, a similar study can be carried out to investigate effect of a moderating or mediating variable on the relationship between monitoring and evaluation and performance of construction projects.

Stakeholders’ participation and the sustainability of street lighting projects in Kiambu County

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Stakeholders’ participation and the sustainability of street lighting projects in Kiambu County Maraga, James Nyanchoka Although the Ruiru town, within Ruiru Sub-County, is well lit, the other areas outside the town are either poorly lit or not lit at all. Besides, many of street lighting units are not functioning. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the influence of stakeholder participation on the sustainability of street lighting projects in Ruiru Sub-County, Kiambu County, Kenya. The independent variable (IV) was stakeholders’ participation while the dependent variable (DV) was the sustainability of the street lighting projects. The specific objectives were to evaluate how stakeholder communication strategies influence the sustainability street lighting projects, determine how stakeholder relationship practices influence the sustainability of lighting projects, and to examine how stakeholder empowerment strategies influence the sustainability of street lighting projects. The research adopted the evaluation research design, suitable for assessing an ongoing initiative. The target population was 20,777 households and 17 key informants. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 392 households was determined for the study. Thirteen (13) key informants were purposively selected including the County Government, provincial administration, and the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC). Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires administered in person to households and key informants. Secondary data was collected from the County Government of Kiambu and KPLC. Thirty-nine questionnaires, which is 10% of the household study sample, were pre-tested in the neighboring Kiuu Ward to ensure the validity and reliability of the research instruments. The study used Cronbach’s alpha method to check for reliability of the instruments, whereas it used the Kaiser- Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure and Bartlett's Test of Sphericity methods to ensure construct validity of the instruments. Data processing involved cleaning and entry into Excel, followed by analysis using SPSS Version 22. Qualitative data from key informants were analyzed thematically and reported verbatim. The key findings of the study showed that communication strategies, relationship practices, and empowerment strategies influenced the sustainability of street lighting projects. The study concluded that effective communication, positive relationships, and empowerment are essential to enhance stakeholder participation, leading to project sustainability. The findings underscore the importance of structured stakeholder participation frameworks to ensure project sustainability. For policy development, the study recommended that policymakers implement a comprehensive stakeholder communication policy that mandates regular, transparent communication and feedback channels. For practice, the study recommended for the development and implementation of a robust stakeholder empowerment strategy aimed at increasing active precipitation in decision- making processes. Based on the findings, a critical area for future research would be the investigation of specific strategies to improve stakeholder inclusion in decision-making processes, with specific focus on exploring the barriers to effective stakeholder inclusion, identification of best practices from similar projects and development of tailored approaches that can be applied to enhance decision-making.

Monitoring and evaluation practices and performance of government of Kenya-funded developmental projects

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Monitoring and evaluation practices and performance of government of Kenya-funded developmental projects Nyaga, Katra The need and justification for project monitoring and assessment have thus far been established. However, it is essential to consider the variables that affect monitoring and assessment, especially in county governments where significant projects and resources have stalled. This study investigated the influence of monitoring and evaluation practices on performance of government of Kenya funded developmental projects in Garissa County using the Garissa County cancer center as a case study. Specifically, this study established the influence of M & E team capacity building, M & E planning, and stakeholder participation on performance of government funded developmental projects in Garissa County, Kenya. The study was underpinned by three theories namely, Theory of Change, the System Theory and the Organization Learning theory. The target population included County Executive Committee, Chief Officer’s health and medical services, Directors of health and medical services as well as the 90-unit members of county health department of Garissa. A descriptive study approach was used, including standard deviations, percentages, frequencies and composite means .The findings indicated that capacity team building for the M & E team is associated with a positive and significant effect on the performance of the government funded projects in Garissa County. It was also established that M & E planning is linked to a positive and significant effect on the performance of the government funded projects in Garissa County. Lastly, it was established that ensuring stakeholder participation for the M & E team is associated with a positive and significant effect on the performance of the government funded projects in Garissa County. In view of the findings of the study, the study recommends the M & E division of the county government of Garissa to ensure there is stakeholder involvement in monitoring of its larger development projects. The M & E division of the county government of Garissa should also enhance capacity building of their M & E team so as to improve their competence in conducting M & E functions. There is also a need for the M & E division of the county government of Garissa to conduct a thorough planning before engaging in any M & E activities so as to enhance delivery. Future studies could consider other counties and examining effects of other constructs of monitoring practices that was not considered by the current study.

Utilization of mobile technology for data collection and enhancement of data quality among humanitarian non governmental organizations

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Utilization of mobile technology for data collection and enhancement of data quality among humanitarian non governmental organizations Benjamin, Migolo This study will aim to investigate the influence of mobile technology usage for data collection on data quality in the context of data collection for humanitarian non- governmental organizations (NGOs), with a specific focus on World Vision Kenya. The landscape of data collection in humanitarian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has evolved significantly in the recent past due to the integration of mobile technology. This paradigm shift is global, with organizations leveraging mobile technology to enhance data collection processes and improve data quality. World Vision International has embraced mobile solutions like Last Mile Mobile Solutions® (LMMS) to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability in humanitarian services. World Vision Kenya utilizes mobile apps like KoboCollect and DreamSave among other apps to address data quality challenges. This study aims to investigate how mobile technology use for data collection influences data quality in humanitarian NGOs, focusing on accuracy, completeness, consistency, timeliness, and reliability of the data collected. This study will explore the types of mobile devices and apps used within World Vision Kenya and their influence on data quality. Staff capacity and training in mobile data collection will be assessed, considering how this influences data collection quality. Additionally, organizational support, including policies and resources, will be examined to understand their role in ensuring quality data outputs. Understanding the nuances of mobile technology utilization within humanitarian NGOs is crucial for optimizing data collection processes and improving decision-making in the humanitarian work. This research seeks to contribute to the broader discourse on leveraging technology for humanitarian aid and underscores the importance of data quality in enhancing humanitarian operations

Monitoring and evaluation strategies and performance of conflict prevention programs in Africa

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Monitoring and evaluation strategies and performance of conflict prevention programs in Africa Meretework Shawul Areda, Meretework Shawul This study sought to investigate the effect of the monitoring and evaluation strategies and the performance of conflict prevention programs in Africa taking as a case the Continental Early Warning System (CEWS) of the African Union (AU). The study was based on three objectives: to assess the extent to which Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) influence the performance of conflict prevention programs, to examine the influence of stakeholder engagement on the performance of conflict prevention programs, and to establish how integration of conflict-sensitive strategies in M&E influences the performance of conflict prevention programs. The theoretical framework covered the theory of change and stakeholder theory. The study adopted a descriptive survey design to understand the research variables in-depth and make informed recommendations. The research site for the study is Addis Ababa, Ethiopia as the seat of the Continental Early Warning System (CEWS) of the African Union. The target population of 125 comprising staff members of the Political Affairs Peace and Security (PAPS) and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) working and supporting conflict prevention programs of CEWS was considered. The sample size of the study calculated by using the Krejcie & Morgan table is 95. The researcher used questionnaires to gather the required information by drop-off and pick-up method as well as mailed surveys depending on the convenience. The research questionnaire was tested for consistency to correct inconsistencies. Further, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient has been used to estimate instrument reliability using the pilot responses, and it returned 0.801, which is fairly high. Once the required data was collected after securing authorization from the relevant bodies, the data was analyzed using SPSS version 29. After the finalization of the data collection, analysis of the data was made using means and standard deviations to assess the central tendencies and dispersion of the data. The study’s results revealed alignments with findings as well as discrepancies with prior studies. It emphasized the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), stressing the need for alignment with strategic goals and the establishment of baseline and targets. A thorough stakeholder analysis involving internal and external stakeholders, as well as clear roles and responsibilities, were deemed crucial. Additionally, the study highlighted the significance of conflict-sensitive M&E practice, along with detailed context analysis. The study recommended the development of clear and measurable KPIs, the establishment of baseline and targets, with participation from both internal and external stakeholders, and prioritizing the integration of conflict-sensitive practice to address challenges and enhance the effectiveness of conflict prevention programs in Africa.

Effect of community participation on performance of child sponsorship programs

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Effect of community participation on performance of child sponsorship programs Ndungu, Peter Ngigi Performance of child sponsorship programs is critical in determining if the programs achieve the overarching goal of promoting child development. Understanding how community participation influences the performance of these programs is essential, considering that children live within a community context. Child sponsorship programs are designed to support children and youth beneficiaries through one aspect or many aspects of life such as health, education, skills development, talent development among others. This study proposed to investigate the effect of community participation on the performance of child sponsorship using Compassion International as the case study. The core objectives of the research were to determine the influence of community participatory planning on the performance of child sponsorship programs in Kenya, to establish the influence of community resources contribution on the performance of child sponsorship programs in Kenya, and to examine the effect of community participation in monitoring and evaluation on the performance of child sponsorship programs in Kenya. The study used Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation as the guiding theory and employed descriptive research design in research methodology. The target population was project-units team members comprised of project directors and community representatives, who implement the project. The sampling procedure used was stratified sampling where a sample size of 180 out of a total 328 project-units team members was approached to inform the study. A closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect the information from the selected respondents, and it was first piloted with 10 respondents who had similar characteristics to the target population. The questionnaires were then sent to the respondents to self- administer. Data analysis was done by use of Ms Excel and Stata to perform descriptive statistics. The study found that community participation was moderate and that it had a moderate positive effect on the performance of child sponsorship program. The study recommended a deliberate effort to involve the community especially in resources contribution to promote sustainability. Further research should be conducted on the quality of community participation to find its effect on the performance of the program.