Impact of Physical Infrastructure and Learning Material Resources on Schools' Learners Performance

Abstract

UNICEF (1993), states that poor learning environment in the developing countries has been identified as one of the variables that lead to poor learners performance in public schools. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of physical resources on learners’ performance in public primary schools in Narok County. Descriptive survey design was used. The study adopted purposive sampling technique since the head teachers, class teachers andn zonal Pupils are believed to be having reliable information relevant for this study. Documents from the education offices were also analyzed. The study used two instruments namely Questionnaires and observation schedule. The researcher analyzed the data by use of the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The study used quantitative techniques (measures of central tendency) and qualitative techniques which are basically descriptive. Pupils waste a lot of time as they wait for each other and at times punished for being late for classes. Majority of the classes were overcrowded and the space between their desks was barely one feet. This is an indication that the schools have inadequate facilities and the high repetitive rate worsens the situations. The study revealed that parents and community finance the largest on physical resources. The study further established that theclassrooms were overcrowded, dusty and very cold during the cold weathers since there were no window panes others were not plastered and others even not painted. The desks were barely one foot which is an indication of inadequate facilities. The study recommends that the Health Officers and Quality Assurance and Standards officers (MOE) should be held accountable for providing necessary information to the ministry of education to help improve the learning environment by providing crucial facilities such as enough latrines and well maintained classrooms. The school management should come up with strategies of lobbying more funds form CDF and other nongovernmental organizations. This would also include looking for donors who may chip in and may provide adequate infrastructures to enhance smooth running of schools and creating a conducive environment for the young pupils in these schools. The NGOs and well-wishers should also offer to help the learners with the basic requirements.