Perceptions of Secondary School Principals in Nairobi on the Impact of Computer Technology on Job Effectiveness

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine perception of secondary school principals in Nairobi on the impact of computer technology on job effectiveness. Additionally, the study analyzed what computer software principals used to perform their duties. Lastly the study examined principals’ perceptions based on the computer technology available to them. Specifically, the research sought to answer the following questions: (1) Which tasks and responsibilities do secondary school principals most frequently use computer technology? (2) What computer software do secondary school principals use in school management? (3) Does gender, number of years as principal, age or school size have any effect on how school principals perceive that computer technology impact their efficiency as principals? (4) To what extent do secondary school principals perceive that computer technology impacts their effectiveness and efficiency as principals? The researcher explored perceptions of principals regarding the impact of computer technology through quantitative and qualitative methods. The information was gathered through the use of a questionnaire. The data gathered allowed the researcher to look critically at the uses, impact and perceptions on computer technology on the effectiveness of secondary school principals. A review of related literature included information on the uses of computers by secondary school principals. This included a review of the literature as it relates to technology in the following areas; leadership; training and standards; growth of technology schools; basic competencies; technology in management; decision making and professional development. The findings of the study indicated that computer technology in administration is rapidly picking up and having a positive impact on the performance of secondary school principals as administrators. The recommendations made were as follows:- 1) . Secondary school principals should be provided with professional opportunities in the area of computer technology through regular courses, workshops and seminars. 2) . Institutions that train teachers should use this study to evaluate how teachers are being prepared to be educational administrators in the 21st century. There is a clear need to incorporate technology in current administration programmes in colleges and universities. 3) . The Ministry of Education should develop a policy to guide the use of computers in school management so that we have a standardized management procedure with regard to the use of computers in school administration. 4) . The government should find ways of making internet connectivity affordable to all so as to achieve the stated goal of industrialization by 2020.