The Use of Alternative Methods of Enforcing Learners` Discipline in Primary Schools in Nyeri Central Sub-County, Kenya
Mr. Patrick Ruirie Kagoiya,Dr. Maurice Kimosop, Dr. Josphat Kagema

Abstract
Following the ban on corporal punishment in schools, various alternative methods enforcing learners discipline have been tried. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of alternative methods of enforcing learners discipline in primary schools in Nyeri Central Sub-County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following objectives: to examine factors contributing to indiscipline; to assess the alternative method of managing learners’ indiscipline; and to establish the effectiveness of the alternative methods of instilling discipline. The study was guided by Planned Behaviour Theory that explores guidance and counseling, good classroom management, effective teaching methods and exploring the children’s government as a guidance tool in learner management. The study employed the survey research design. The target population of the study consisted of 616 subjects comprising of 572 teachers, 43 head teachers and one District Quality Assurance and Standards Officer (DQASO) from Nyeri Central Sub County. Simple random sampling was used to select 91 teachers randomly selected from 13 schools. Purposive sampling was used to select 13 head teachers and one (DQASO). The research instruments used in this study comprised of Head Teachers’ Questionnaire, Teachers’ Questionnaire and DQASO’s Interview Guide. A pilot study was conducted to test the validity and reliability of the research instruments. A coefficient of 0.76 was found, which showed that the instruments were reliable. The data obtained from the Questionnaire was coded and analyzed quantitatively using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS ver 19). Data presentation was done by use of charts, tables, percentages and frequencies. Qualitative data from the interview schedule was presented in expository form. The study found out that majority of the teachers (55% )used guidance and counseling in enforcing discipline in schools despite (7.1%) still using corporal punishment; it also found out that learners need to be educated on the importance of obeying school rules. The study concludes that absenteeism/truancy and lying were found to be prevalent in many schools and that teacher and parents are to take a great role in discipline management of learners. The study recommended training for teachers on Alternative methods of discipline management and sensitization to embrace alternative methods. It is hoped that the findings of the study may benefit education policy makers and practitioners to enforce acceptable disciplinary procedures in schools.

Full Text: PDF