SCHOOL LITERACY ENVIRONMENT AND SCHOOL ATTENDANCE AMONG PUBLIC PRESCHOOL PUPILS IN MERU COUNTY, KENYA
SCHOOL LITERACY ENVIRONMENT AND SCHOOL ATTENDANCE AMONG PUBLIC PRESCHOOL PUPILS IN MERU COUNTY, KENYA
Kinyua Purity - Masters of Education, Kenyatta University, Kenya.
Dr. Damaris Kariuki - Department of Educational Management, Policy and Curriculum Studies, Kenyatta University, Kenya.
ABSTRACT
Trends in preschool attendance show Eastern region trailing at 48% and 58% behind Nairobi, Central, Nyanza, Rift Valley and Coast. This study sought to find out the relationship between school literacy environment and school attendance. Guided by correlational research design, this study collected data from 145 respondents including 120 parents, 12 preschool teachers and 12 preschool head teachers. Preschools were randomly selected while teachers, head teachers and sub-county director were purposively selected. Data were gathered via a semi-structured questionnaire, and information from the sub- county director of education at the sub county and head teachers of preschools was gathered through interviews. Data was analyzed and frequencies, means and totals presented in charts and tables. Chi-square test was utilized to establish variable relationships. The study found that counting objects were readily available which improved the literacy environment for children at preschool. The study concluded that school literacy environment and school attendance have a significant relationship among pupils in early years’ education in Imenti North. The study also concluded that the resources available would facilitate school attendance by children in preschool. The resources available would be fit for normal operations of preschool children. The study recommends that the government, through the Ministry of Finance, provide more money to the SFP kitty to guarantee that there is a steady supply of school meals in order to support the students' regular attendance at school. The teachers should establish ties with the parents in order to keep tabs on their children's attendance at school. To the quality assurance officers at the county level and national government, the study recommends that there should be fund allocated for pre-school education in order to ensure the attainment of EFA goals and in line with vision 2030. This can be done through partnership with NGOs and faith based organizations.
