Assessment of vocational counselling and occupational choice in primary schools in Nyeri Central district, Nyeri county, Kenya

Abstract

ABSTRACT The purpose of the study was to investigate vocational counselling and occupational choice in primary schools in Municipality Division, Nyeri Central District, Kenya. The study was guided specifically by the following objectives: the kind of training undergone by teachers of vocational counseling in relation to job placement, the prevalence of vocational counselling and the effects of vocational counselling in primary schools in Nyeri Central District, Nyeri County, Kenya. Literature was reviewed in the sequence of the objectives. The study adopted the relevant theoretical framework and the conceptual framework which showed how the researcher was guided by the indicated variables. The study therefore adopted descriptive survey targeting 15 head teachers and 150 teachers. The sample selected was 5 head teachers and 50 teachers which was done through systematic random sampling. All the teachers were coded and every third selected for study. Radom sampling ensured that all the teachers had equal chances of participating in the study. On part of the head teachers, all the head teachers were coded and every third studied translating to five head teachers. The data obtained from the questionnaires was compared and interrelated. The data was checked for extremes such as consensus responses to disagree or agree with them. The data was then coded so as to allow for analysis. Quantitative analysis were used to answer the research questions and objectives in relation to the research questions. The data was then analyzed using the Microsoft Office Excel package which assisted in drawing tables and graphs. It was also found that prevalence of vocational counseling in Municipality Division, Nyeri Central District was wanting. Another finding was that vocational counseling in Municipality Division, Nyeri Central District had very positive effects on the students where it was practiced. The study made several recommendations. It was recommended that the Ministry of Education should ensure teachers of vocational counseling are well trained. It was also recommended that all education stakeholders in Municipality Division, Nyeri Central District should be sensitized on the importance of vocational counseling. Lastly, the researcher recommended that all the school administrators in Municipality Division, Nyeri Central District should ensure that vocational counseling is properly done in their schools.