The relationship between user education costs and secondary school completion rates in Samburu East Sub-county, Kenya

Abstract

The study aimed at investigating the relationship between user education costs and secondary school completion rates in Samburu East Sub-county, Kenya. The descriptive survey research design was adopted. The study was guided by influential theory by Finn (1993). The study targeted a population of 254 Form four students derived from 7 secondary schools in Samburu East Sub-county, Kenya. The sample size of the study was 156 form four students. The 7 schools included in the study were sampled based on the fact that they had student cohorts who sat for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education examination. Data was collected using a questionnaire. The instruments were validated using content validity; also, validity was ensured through expert opinions. Piloting was done and reliability was tested using Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The coefficient value of above 0.7 was obtained; therefore, the questionnaire was reliable. The response was obtained using a stratified and simple random sampling technique. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Quantitative data was analysed using mean, frequencies, percentages and Pearson Correlation Coefficient. The findings were presented in tables. The hypothesis at a threshold of 0.5 alpha level was tested using the Pearson Correlation Coefficient. The researcher concluded that the provision of personal effects by parents and the provision of lunch programs encouraged secondary school completion rates in the study locality. The study recommended for collaboration with the parents by sensitising them the need for supporting their children's education by providing the implementing management practices that can improve secondary school completion rates.