Technological Determinants of Educational Resources Management for Enhancing Students' Performance in Secondary Schools in Vihiga County, Kenya

Abstract

Resource utilization is an integral part of the overall management of the school. Education in a school is explored by provision of resources, their maximum utilization and management. Proper management of resources enhances students' performance and achieves the educational objectives. The success or failure of any organization, business or enterprise depends highly on proper management of human and material resources. The purpose of this study was to establish the technological determinants of management of educational resources for enhancing students' performance in secondary schools in Vihiga County. The specific objectives were to assess the technological determinants of educational resources management and their influence on students' performance in secondary schools. A descriptive survey design was adopted. The study population composed of 112 head teachers, 1,120 teachers, 4,480 students and 9 County Quality Assurance and Standards Officers. Simple random sampling method, stratified sampling technique, saturated sampling technique and purposive sampling method were used to select samples. Questionnaires and in-depth interview guides, observation schedules and document analysis were used to collect data. Reliability of instruments was determined through a pilot study conducted in 3 secondary schools. Results of reliability of the instruments were assessed using Pearson's product moment correlation coefficient test. Content validity was established by availing instruments to supervisors. Qualitative data from interviews was transcribed and reported according to emerging themes, categories and sub-categories while quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, means and percentages. Pearson's product moment correlation coefficient was used to establish relationships between variables. Findings of the study revealed that the technological determinants of educational resources management were; provision of enhancement courses to teachers frequently and engagement of technical staff in schools to support teachers. From the study, it is concluded that the technological determinants of educational resources management seem to influence availability, adequacy and utilization of educational resources in Vihiga County. The inadequacy and unavailability of educational resources obscures students' performance in KCSE. From the study, it is recommended that schools in the County should strategize on ways of getting funds to enable them acquire adequate educational resources. The findings of the study are expected to guide the county policy makers in formulation and implementation of policies that ensure proper educational resources management in secondary schools.