A comparative study of KCPE performance between the lowland and highland areas of Baringo North in Rift Valley Province of Kenya

Abstract

This study set out to compare KCPE performance between the lowland and highland areas of Baringo North in Rift-Valley Province of Kenya. The main drive behind the study was the persistent poor performance in KCPE examinations recorded in the highland areas of Baringo North which is economically endowed with a high level of literacy compared to the lowland areas. The lowland areas have been performing better than the highland areas in KCPE examinations for the last five years according to the Kenya National Examination Council order of merit analysis. The study investigated the factors influencing the teaching/learning process within and outside the school environment. Based on these factors, four objectives were formulated.The study used the descriptive survey research design. Using proportionate stratified sampling method, sixteen (16) schools from each ecological zone participated in the study. Information was collected using questionnaires administered to the respondents'which includes head teachers' and teachers' of public primary schools and the immediate education officers who are in-charge of monitoring curriculum implementation. Data was analyzed using mainly descriptive statistics particularly frequencies and percentages. The statistical information acquired was analyzed by cross tabulating the responses from the lowland and highland areas. The following are the findings of the study, based on each of the research questions: .The study established that there were uneven distribution of teachers based on

gender between the lowland and highland areas. .Despite teachers preparing the necessary records for the implementation of the

curriculum, head teachers were not regular in checking these records and holding staff meetings. .Most of the teachers who attend in-service courses were from the highland areas compared to the teachers from lowland areas .Teachers who reported that they were unable to complete the syllabus were those

teaching Social Studies. They reported that the syllabus was too wide. Based on these findings the study recommended the following measures for improvement of performance in KCPE examinations. I. There should be balanced distribution of teachers in rural areas in terms of promotions to school headship, education supervision and at school level.

II. Education stake holders should organize forums for sensitizing the Parents on the need to be committed to their children's' school work. III. There's need among all persons concerned to set a rulings that boys should under go the rite of circumcision after primary education to avoid indiscipline in primary schools.

IV. Ministry of Education should re-examine the syllabus of Social Studies with a view to reducing the scope without compromising what students are taught to learn.