Promoting Reading Culture: The Case of Student-Participation in Selection of Reading Materials in Public Secondary Schools in Kakamega County, Kenya
- January 17, 2020
- Posted by: RSIS
- Categories: IJRSI, Printing and Media Engineering, Social Science
International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VII, Issue I, January 2020 | ISSN 2321–2705
Solomon Simwa
Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Educational Media, Moi University, Kenya
Abstract: Following introduction of Free Tuition Programme (FTP) in Kenyan public secondary schools in 2008, there has been an unprecedented increase in procurement of reading materials (RM) in these institutions. This paper examines the extent to which students participate in selection of RM as a critical determinant of development of reading culture in schools. It is based on a cross-sectional descriptive survey of public secondary schools situated in Kakamega County, Kenya. A total of 372 Form Four students responded to questionnaire and 31 library teachers were interviewed. The participants were selected through stratified, simple random and purposive sampling procedures. Quantitative and qualitative approaches were used to analyse data. Findings reveal that there is limited student participation in selection of RM in these schools due to weaknesses among teachers namely; poor attitudes towards the concept; and lack of relevant knowledge and skills. The study recommends capacity-building of teachers in effective management of reading programmes in schools.
Key terms: Reading Culture, Student-participation, Reading Materials, Free Tuition Programme, Public Secondary Schools
I. INTRODUCTION
The importance of a good reading culture to students and a nation as a whole is widely known. It boosts one’s language development, refreshes the mind besides exposing readers to new development ideas. In short, the more a person reads, the more educated and productive she becomes. It is no wonder research has identified a positive correlation between societies’ socio-economic development and reading levels among citizens (Ryanga, 2002).
The Ministry of Education (MOE) in Kenya appreciates this concept. That is why upon introduction of Free Tuition Programme (FTP) in all public secondary schools in 2008, the MOE set aside Ksh. 1284 per student annually for procurement of reading materials (RM) and other school supplies (MOE, 2010). To fully utilize the RM, every school is expected to conduct a reading lesson popularly known as library lesson every week. In addition, teachers are encouraged to ensure school libraries are open and accessible to students as much as possible for independent reading (MOE, 2006).
