Factors affecting performance of teacher trainees in Kericho teachers training college

Abstract

Teachers are the torch bearers in creating social cohesion, national integration and a learning society. They not only disseminate knowledge but also create and generate new knowledge. They are responsible for acculturating role of education. No nation can even marginally slacken its efforts in giving necessary profession. Thus teachers and teacher trainee, the key factor in all educational development , need to be professionally equipped with teaching competencies, commitment and determination to perform at their best. The quality of education is a direct consequence and outcome of the quality of teachers , teacher trainee and teacher education system. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors affecting performance of teacher trainees in Kericho teachers training college. In order to achieve the purpose of this , six research objectives were addressed that is: to establish the extent to which teacher trainees are aware of the factors that affects performance, to establish the extent to which teaching / learning resources affects performance of teacher trainee , to establish the extent to which teachers’ knowledge and skills affects performance of teacher trainee , to establish the extent to which teachers attitudes and beliefs affects the performance of teacher trainees, to establish the extent to which student/ trainee attitude affects their performance and to find out the extent to which school environment affect performance of teacher trainee in Kericho teachers training college. The theoretical framework of this study is derived from the functionalist conception of education. The study adopted a case study research design. Purposive sampling is used to select the respondents. a sample of 180 students , 30 teachers, 1 principal, 1 examination officer and 2 HOD formed the respondents of the study. Data is collected by use of structured questionnaires, interview schedules and observation checklist. Data from the research instruments were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. With the help of SPSS, data is analyzed using correlation and regression analysis. Descriptive frequency statistics, tables, bar graphs were used to present the data. Correlation analysis is used to test the hypotheses and established the significant relationship between independent and the dependent variables using the standard significance level of 0.05. The outcome of the study is therefore expected to help the Ministry of Education to re-examine its policies regarding the teacher’s trainee education using the results and knowledge. It is hoped that the findings and recommendations will be used to address the factors affecting performance and advice the Ministry of Education in redefining policies concerning teaching and learning in teacher training colleges.