Master of Arts in Religious Studies

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://41.89.31.6:4000/handle/123456789/181

Welcome to Master of Arts in Religious Studies collection

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 31

Factors influencing drug and substance abuse among secondary school students in Meru municipality in Imenti North District, Kenya.
(KeMU, 2011-06) Mutonga, Hellen
Drug and substance abuse is a major challenge to societies and authorities from all over the world. The main objective of this study was to investigate factors that influence drug and substance abuse among secondary school students in Meru municipality in Imenti North District. The study adopted descriptive research design. The sample was drawn from students in nine public secondary schools in Meru municipality with a total 3273 students. The accessible population was from forms two, three and four. Stratified simple random sampling was used to obtain 360 students. A questionnaire was used for data collection. Piloting was done in Kiereni mixed secondary School in Chuka Municipality in Meru South District which is both boarding school. Split half technique was used during the pre-testing. The coefficient was 0.71, suggesting that the instruments were reliable. With the help of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-square). Findings were presented in tables, percentages and pie-charts. The main reason for drug and substance was peer influence. Substances most commonly abused were social drugs like alcohol, Miraa, tobacco as well as indigenous alcoholic drinks. Drug abuse was strongly dependent on age of respondents, easy availability of drugs and having a family member who abuses drugs. Sources of drugs are mostly the low economic areas around the schools. The study recommends that the government and other stakeholders should institute a greater public awareness campaign especially for the most venerable groups to educate them on the side effects of drug and substance abuse.
Factors affecting performance in Christian Religious Education in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education in Igembe South District.
(KeMU, 2012-06) Mbaabu, Karicha Jona
In a world plagued with performance contracts both in public and private sectors performance for teachers is quite relevant, if they will have to retain their jobs. Due to much competition in the job markets, it is also quite important for students to perform well in their national exams in various subjects. This research work aimed at investigating various factors that affect performance in Christian Religious Education (CRE) in Kenya Certificate Secondary Education (KCSE) exams in Igembe South District. CRE being one of the elective subjects, it requires proper investigation to ensure students perform well in the subjects so that they can continue choosing it, since there is an option of choosing either history or geography in form three. The objective of the study was to .find out whether time allocated for CRE lessons is enough owing to the broad content. The study sought to find out number of trained teachers in schools, the teaching and learning resources in schools and effects of motivation on how they affect performance in CRE in KCSE. The study was carried out in ten secondary schools in Igembe South District. In the ten schools, questionnaires to CRE teachers, school administrators and students of selected classes. The researcher interviewed form two and three students of these schools. The researcher had a target population of 5000 students and he managed to reach a size of 1000 students. The target population of CRE teachers was 40 and the researcher was able to reach a sample size of 20. While the target population for principals was 15 and the researcher was able to reach sample size of 10. The researcher used questionnaires as the main instrument for data collection. The responses were then collected and analyzed and data was compiled in tables, graphs and pie charts. General findings of the study were that human and material resources are factors affecting student's performance in CRE as well as time allocated for CRE per week, while motivation of students does not affect student's performance in CRE. This study recommends that more CRE teachers should be trained and posted in schools. The Ministry of Education should diversify their teaching methods and also motivate learners in various ways.
Impact of alcoholism on parental care of school children: A case of Miriga Mieru West Division in Meru county.
(KeMU, 2012-07) Gikunda, Kimaita Richard
This study is a research to find out the impact of alcoholism on the parental care of school going children in Miragamieru West division. This is because many parents have neglected their school going children thus raising the school dropout rate. Children going to school lack basic necessities like pens, books, fees and personal effects. The number of idlers in the markets has increased in Mirigamieru West division. The rate of alcoholic drinks taking has also increased. The health of some of the parents who are heavily indulged into alcohol taking has deteriorated. Deaths of parents in unclear circumstance have occurred. Domestic violence and immoral practices like rape and violence in general has increased. The ageing parents are complaining that their daughters and sons are taking alcoholic drinks and thus neglecting their grandchildren who are in school. Women (members) at the church have complained of the many problems they face that are related to alcoholism of their spouses (husbands) and children especially sons. Alcoholism has been found to be a factor that has led to poor parental care to school going children where they are affected socially, emotionally and financially. Data has been collected and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). From the data analysis, it has been found that some parents are heavily indulged into alcoholism and thus wasting a lot of family resources thus failing to cater for the school going children well. It has been recommended that the Government should ensure that only the approved alcoholic drinks are sold to the parents in Mirigamieru West Davison for the illicit brews are killing them slowly thus raising the number of orphans. Government agents involved in the law enforcement should be serious in implementing jhe government alcoholic policy. The corrupt administrators should be sacked for they are encouraging the consumption of the illicit brews that are killing parents in the division at a high rate thus affecting the school going children.
Membership growth within the Methodist church in Muthara Circuit of Miathene synod Meru County.
(KeMU, 2013-04) Mwita, Rev. James
The researcher studied membership growth within the Methodist Church in Muthara Circuit, Miathene Synod, Meru County. The researcher selected Muthara Circuit amongst others due to the fact that presumably it has the lowest membership growth within the Methodist Church in Miathene Synod Meru County. The study was guided by the following objectives: to identify factors affecting membership growth within the Methodist Church in Muthara circuit, to evaluate the participation of youth, men and women in mission and evangelism programs of the Methodist Church in Muthara circuit, to identify strategies that will improve the membership growth within the Methodist Church in Muthara circuit, to find out the problem facing membership growth within the Methodist Church in Muthara circuit and to suggest possible solutions to address the problems facing membership growth within Methodist Church in Muthara circuit, Meru County. The research was guided by the following research questions: what factors affect membership growth within the Methodist Church in Muthara Circuit? What role do men, women and youth play in mission and evangelism in Muthara Circuit? What strategies are necessary to improve the membership growth within the Methodist Church in Muthara Circuit? What problems face the membership growth with the Methodist Church in Muthara Circuit and what are possible solutions to the problems? The research design adopted a descriptive case study and the existing literature analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Primary data was collected by use of questionnaire, interview guide and observations. Data was collected from the population size of 84 respondents which include leaders / clergy, youth, men and women in Muthara Circuit. Sampling technique used was stratified random sampling for youth, men and purposive sampling for the clergy/ leaders. The sampling size was 69 respondents as determined by Yamanes formula (1992).Data was analyzed by use of statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) and interpreted in percentages, mean and frequencies and illustrated in tables, figures, for deductive and evaluative purpose. The study explored issues such as gender / sex, level of education, marketing strategies, modernity, praise and worship (music) with Public Address System (PAS),Group salvation social reforms, Ethnicity, Evangelism and mission and sacrament and their effect on membership growth in Muthara Circuit. The study realized that there is a direct relationship between Methodist Church, mission and Evangelism and membership growth. It points out that the traditions, beliefs and values of Church have a direct influence on the membership growth. The study concluded that the Methodist Church and its members must be able to rationalize their traditions, culture and beliefs for membership growth to be improved. The recommendations include; the Methodist Church to envisage the modern changes in the youth, men and women in terms of education and technological advancement like use of facilities & equipment to attract membership growth in the Church.
The influence of digital technology on moral behavior patterns of youths: A case study of ten congregations within Episcopal churches in Isiolo.
(KeMU, 2013-05) Lomojo, Rev. David Lokoro
Digital technology is the challenge of the contemporary society. The recent advances in Information technology have affected perceptions, attitudes and moral behaviors of youth. Scholars have managed to earmark this age as an 'information age' that is characterized by vibrant availability of gadgets of communication that have enhanced interactivity amongst world populations. A factor peculiar to this age is not only the availability of means of communication as telephones, internet, computer and television but the increased rate and speed of passing information coupled with the aspect of overcoming distance barrier that has characterized previous epochs of human history in regard to communications. As IT becomes a normative tool in the society, attitudes and behavior patterns are shaped, morality has been jeopardized and belief systems challenged and compromised, especially, amongst the youths. Amazingly, such effects often occur without notice and a case in point is addiction to technology despite other malpractices as hacking, pornography, cyber-crime, extravagance, gaming, cheating and secular music, among others. Based on these realities a survey research was conducted to investigate the impact of technology on youth within ten congregations, with a random sample of one thousand and three hundred youth in a population of approximately seven thousand members within the target audience. The study was carried out in Mornbasa, Isiolo, Nanyuki and Archer's Post. Questionnaires, interview schedule, observation guide and a focused group discussion guide were used for data collection. Before the use of instruments in the field, they were subjected to pilot study so as to facilitate assessment of reliability and validity. Data collected was then sorted out and analyzed. After the data analysis and interpretations, it was concluded that the impact of technology on youth models an aspect of growth in addictions to technology alongside negative behaviors as articulated and enlisted within this paper. Subsequently, it was recommended that the measures to address the influence of technology on youth behavior calls for a concerted approach from all stakeholders ranging from parental guidance on one hand and the- church, the school and government, on the other.
Factors that influence discipline among the students in Imenti North District Secondary schools - Meru county.
(KeMU, 2013-06) Makathimo, Eunice Karambu
One of the goals of education is to mould good citizens. This molding is done in schools where everybody's effort is directed. One of the subjects taught to prepare students to be responsible citizens is Christian Religious Education. One of the specific objectives of CRE is to make learners God fearing and well behaved people. A lot of guidance and counseling is done in schools nowadays to ensure that students behave well. Despite those efforts teachers, administrators, and parents are all complaining about the discipline • of the young people in secondary schools. The purpose of this study was therefore to establish the factors that influence the state of discipline among the youth in North lmenti District Secondary Schools. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. Questionnaires were used to collect primary data from principals, teachers, and students .Prior to the administration the questionnaire was pilot tested to facilitate validation and assessment of reliability. The district has a total of 43 secondary schools with a student population of 10,663.Twenty two schools were randomly sampled .The sampled schools had 5,660 students and 600 teachers. The actual sample which was randomly selected from the population was 335 subjects comprising of 22 principals, 30 teachers and 283 students. The data was analyzed manually and then converted into frequency distribution tables and percentages. Results obtained were presented using graphs and frequency tables, in addition to narratives. The study concluded that parenting was factor number one in influencing discipline of students. The other factors included, drug and substance abuse, school administration, peer influence, curriculum demands and examinations. Christian Religious Education is also a factor that influences discipline through teaching of moral values. Those who apply the learnt values to their daily living are said to be well disciplined. The study therefore, recommends that parents should play their role properly, by being good role models in all aspects. This would ensure disciplined students in schools. It is hoped that the results will enable the stake holders in education, who include Ministry of Education, and teachers to seriously address the issue of moldings discipline among students.
An investigation of christian religious education curriculum implementation methods: case study of three primary schools in Kangeta Division
(KeMU, 2013-06) Mwenda, Kirimi Jotham
ABSTRACT TITLE: AN INVESTIGATION OF CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CURRICULUM IMPLEMENTATION METHODS: A CASE STUDY OF THREE PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN KANGETA DIVISION. AUTHOR: KIRIMI JONATHAN MWENDA Christian Religious Education remains one of the most single subjects that deal directly with the teaching of spirituality, values, attitudes, beliefs and human behavior with the Bible as the key resource. Teaching of CRE in Kenya has undergone tremendous changes over the years. Defective curriculum can lead to defective teaching, which eventually affect the pupils as well as the country. There is problem when it comes to the implementation of CRE curriculum in primary schools. According to reliable information from the District Education Office, there has been no documented study done in Kangeta Division investigating CRE curriculum implementation methods. The main objective of the study was therefore an investigation of CRE curriculum implementation methods: A case study of three selected primary schools in Kangeta Division. The three schools that were included in the study were: Njia primary school, Kani-Karui primary school and Kangeta primary school. The research sought to answer four main questions: What are the methods used in primary schools during CRE curriculum implementation? What is the level of training of CRE curriculum implementers in the relevant subject in primary schools? What is the quality of CRE teaching and learning instructional materials being used in primary schools? What are the sources of CRE instructional materials in primary schools? The research design used was a case study where both quantitative and qualitative descriptive study was adopted. The researcher used questionnaires, face-to-face interviews and observation methods. The study was carried out in Kangeta division, Igembe south district which is about 54 kilometers North of Meru Town. Pupils and teachers of CRE of the three selected primary schools in Kangeta Division served as the population in the study. The raw data obtained was put into tables using calculators, computers, and then presented in form of percentages, pie charts and graphs. The study finding revealed that schools had adequate instructional and learning materials for CRE instructional materials. From the study it was established that the CRE teachers involved the learners when teaching in reading the Bible, asking and answering questions and role playing some of the bible characters. Even though the three schools indicated that they had adequate instructional materials for teaching CRE, the schools management and community leaders should work closely to strengthen their relations which will make the provision of basic teaching facilities and resources possible. This in turn makes it possible for the schools to attain better performance.
Spiritual and moral formation in the private Universities in Kenya: A case study of Kenya Methodist University.
(KeMU, 2013-06) Teresa, Conteh Marian
Despite the critical importance given to character building and spiritual formation in most private universities in Kenya (many of which have religious foundations), there is considerable evidence that many students are found to be involved in socially deviant behavior as well as academic malpractices. This study examined the importance given to, and the current state of character building and spiritual formation affairs at the Kenya Methodist University (subsequently referred as KeMU). The students' perception regarding the importance of the above virtues to their holistic development was sought. The researcher further sought to establish what relationship existed between deviant moral behaviors among the students to their involvement in relevant spiritual programs available at the university. The study was significance because intellectual excellence alone, without moral and spiritual uprightness to match with, has continued to produce and send imbalanced graduates to the society, unable to synthesize academic and upright character in their service. The researcher developed survey instruments (interviews and questionnaires) to collect data from a sample of 240 student respondents through stratified random sampling and a purposive sample of 10 staff members. The findings of the study revealed that spiritual and moral formation programs needed to be enhanced and that a lack of adequate spiritual impartation played a major role in the moral deterioration evidenced by academic malpractices and other vices among students in Kenya's private universities. One of the major priorities of the Kenyan government is to produce learned men and women of integrity who would be used to implement its strategic plan as envisioned in the vision 2030 dream. The implementation of the findings of this is study will go a long way in helping the Kenyan government achieve its dream through well educated, holistic individuals.
Gusii culture and the relationship of women in the church: A case study on Seventh-Day Adventist church in Kisii County-Kenya
(KeMU, 2013-06) Ositu, Mary Nyarangi
ABSTRACT TITLE: GUSII CULTURE AND THE LEADERSHIP OF WOMEN IN THE CHURCH.A CASE STUDY ON SEVEN SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH IN KISII COUNTY -KENYA AUTHOR: MARY NYARANGI OSITU This study was conducted to find out the impact of Gusii culture on the leadership of women in the seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) in Kisii County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were: To find out the Gusii cultural perceptions that work against the choosing of women leaders in the SDA church, to establish how Gusii culture influences the leadership of women in the church, to establish the role of women in the SDA church leadership and to come up with recommendations on how the issue of women leadership can be addressed in the SDA church. The study focused on the 645 SDA churches in the County, with a total population of 150,221 members. The theoretical framework of the study was based on the social construction theory of Kenneth J. Gergen and the feminist post-structural theory of Chris Weedon. Simple random sampling was used to get the sample size for the study. Questionnaires and oral interviews were used to collect data from church elders, women in leadership and women not in leadership. Interview schedules were used -to collect data from the pastors. Content validity was ascertained using experts and pilot study whereas reliability was established using split-half technique. The research design used in the study was survey correlation. This was chosen because a lot of information from widely scattered respondents was obtained and analyzed. The design also provided information concerning the degree of relationship between the variables under study through correlation coefficient matrices. Data analysis was done using qualitative techniques (SPSS). It was presented by the use of simple descriptive statistics like tables, frequencies and percentage as well as narratives and thematic quotations. The study was significant because it provided understanding of the impact of culture on the leadership of women in the SDA church. It also provided a useful forum through which women in the church expressed their views on the issue of leadership. The findings of the study: There are Gusii cultural perceptions that affect the leadership of women in the SDA church; Gusii culture has an impact on the leadership of women in the SDA church; Women play subordinate roles in the SDA church leadership; There are very few ordained female pastors in the SD~ church in Kisii county; Women need empowerment in order to access leadership positions in the SDA church. The study recommended that women be integrated in church leadership. This can be done through theological training, empowerment of women, taking them through mentorship programs and exposing them to leadership. The study also recommended that further research be done on past beliefs and writings about women issues from women's perspective. Finally, the study recommended that research be done on the impact of Gusii culture on women leadership in other Christian churches in the area.
The influence of Christianity on Abagusii traditional marriage customs with specific reference to the payment of dowry: A case study of Gucha District, Kisii County
(KeMU, 2014-05) Okeno, Damaris
ABSTRACT TITLE: THE INFLUENCE OF CHRISTIANITY ON ABAGUSII TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE CUSTOMS WITH SPECIFIC REFERENCE TO THE PAYMENT OF DOWRY: A CASE OF GUCHA DISTRICT, KISII COUNTY. AUTHOR: DAMARIS OKENO The research assessed the influence of Christianity on Kisii traditional marriage with particular reference to bride wealth in Gucha District, Kisii county Kenya. The researcher looked at the influence of Christianity on the Kisii traditional view of bride wealth. The researcher also looked at the importance of dowry in the Kisii traditional society. At the same time the study found out the differences between the Kisii traditional and Christian view of bride wealth. The research further established aspects in the Kisii traditional view of dowry that can be used to enrich Christian view of bride wealth so as to sustain the primary aim of marriage. The study is justified because it will be relevant to the youths in the Kisii community to establish a need to embrace the payment of bride wealth in their Christianity. The church on the same note will be able to adopt important aspects from the traditional view of bride wealth of the Abagusii purposely to enrich the payment of dowry in the Christian church. The study employed a descriptive research design with an aim of providing accurate and valid representation of the variables related to the research questions. Processing the data was collected by the use of codes that were easy to analyze the data using the Krejcie and Morgan table in determining the sample size. The target of the study was the elderly people in the district of age between 60 years and 90 years. Their estimated population was 50 and the sample size was 44 people. Another target group was the church members who were estimated to be 110 and the sample size was 86 members. Lastly it targeted youths in the church that estimated to 100 and the sample size was 80 of them who were to give their view on the same. The study carried out a purposive sampling technique in order to identify the respondents easily and quickly. The validity and reliability of the instruments was tested when they were applied in the field by use of content validity and the split-half method. The ethical considerations taken into account were keeping the information given confidential and observe the rules of the people by maintaining their respect by using an acceptable language within the community. The study found out that both Christian and traditional marriages interact in one way or another. Both share a system of bride wealth negotiation, the ceremonies binding the payment of bride wealth, which assists in preventing divorce. Further, the respondents on variables conformed that both dowry systems are interlinked. However, a few respondents felt that the traditional marriage system of bride wealth seem that families were selling and it is not a price given for upkeep. The study therefore, recommended that there should be a uniform system of bride wealth in both Christian and traditional marriages. In addition to that, there should be a uniform form of bride wealth negotiation and terms of payment among all groups.
The persistence of polygyny in the Roman Catholic church, Diocese of Kisii, Kenya: A case of Ichuni parish
(2014-05) Omweri, Francisca Nyanduko
This study was conducted to find out the reasons for the persistence of polygyny in Ichuni Parish Roman Catholic Diocese of Kisii, Kenya. The objectives of the study were: to find out the factors that made people to marry more than one wife in the traditional African Society, to find out the position of the Roman Catholic Church concerning polygynous marriage in lchuni Parish, to establish reasons why Christians in lchuni Parish continue with the practice of polygyny and to come up with recommendations on how the issue of polygyny can be addressed in the Roman Catholic Church. The study focused on 16 Roman Catholic Church centers found in 1chuni Parish of the Diocese of Kisii. The theoretical frame work of the study was based on the cultural lag theory of William F. Ogburn. Simple random sampling was used to get the sample size for the study. This study was conducted through a descriptive survey where both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were used. Data was collected using questionnaires from 10 Catechists and 132 respondents who were Church members, using simple random sampling from the accessible population of 200. This study targeted Catechists and Church members who were given questionnaires to fill which were self-administered and they were picked after one week. Testing of validity and reliability of the research was done in the neighbouring Nyansiongo Parish which served as pilot area in the pre-testing. Data analysis was done using both qualitative and quantitative technique. Quantitative data was analyzed by use of simple descriptive statistics that is in tables, frequencies and percentages while qualitative data was analyzed and reported in narrative form. The study was significant because it provided understanding in the persistence of polygyny among the Church members in the Roman Catholic Church and provided ways of reducing the cultural practices of polygyny. The study recommended that the Church should look for ways of teaching married couples 011 the best way to live in a Christian way. This can be done through workshops or seminars on the advantages of monogamous marriage, withdraw of church responsibility from the polygynous couples, encouraging faithfulness among couples and giving of incentives to monogamous marriages. The study also recommended further research to be done on reasons for persistence of polygyny from other Parishes in the Diocese of Kisii, from other Christian denominations in Kenya and the impact of polygyny on the economy.
Analysis of factors that influence drugs and substance abuse among secondary school students in Imenti North District.
(KeMU, 2014-06) Mukomunene, Pamela
Drug and substance abuse has continued to be an issue of great concern during the past several years with a great number of people reported as drug abusers in the world and being a serious problem affecting secondary school students. Drug and substance abuse has numerous biological, psychological and social adverse consequences. The menace has been reported as being influenced by different factors which include mass media, availability of drugs, peer pressure, curiosity, and availability of funds, boredom, harsh school rules and poor parenting. The study being carried out is aimed at analyzing the factors that influence drug and substance abuse among secondary school students in lmenti North District. The research objectives for the study were whether peer pressure, mass media, amount of money given to students and availability of drugs influence drug and substance abuse among secondary school students in Imenti North. The target population was composed of 10,663 students from the 43 secondary schools in Miriga Mieru East and West divisions. Questionnaires were prepared and used in the collection of primary data from the deputy principals, teachers and students. Prior to administration, the questionnaires were pilot tested to facilitate validation and assessment of reliability. The data was analyzed manually at the end of which results were displayed using frequency distribution tables, percentages and pie charts. The study concluded that drugs and substance abuse was influenced by different factors. These were categorized into major and minor factors, the major factors included mass media, peer pressure, availability of. Drugs and the amount of pocket money given to the students. The study, therefore, recommends that parents and guardians should avoid giving a lot of pocket money to their children; the government should come up with ways to fight drugs found within the students' reach.
Effects of divorce on lay leadership roles in the church: A case study of the Roman Catholic church in Suneka parish, Kisii County - Kenya
(KeMU, 2014-06) Kinare, Miyona David
The study was conducted to examine the effects of divorce on lay leadership roles in the Roman Catholic Church in Suneka Parish, Kisii County. The research showed the effects of divorce on lay leadership roles in the Roman Catholic Church. It examined the causes of divorce on lay leaders in the Roman Catholic Church and investigated the Christian's view on divorce. It also determined the possible solutions for divorce among lay leaders in the Roman Catholic Church. The research was conducted through sampling of the lay leaders and church member in the Roman Catholic Church, at Suneka Parish between May 2013 and June, 2013. The study will be of great help to the Roman Catholic Church in assessing the extent by which divorce has affected its lay leadership role in the church. The study target population was 205 Christians consisting of25 catholic catechists, 25 church chairpersons, 25 secretaries and 130 catholic adherents (members) and sample size of 169 of target population which was appropriated through simple random sampling which was used to choose randomly the respondents. The study employed a quantitative approach. The quantitative approach used was a questionnaire. It utilized a descriptive sample survey design, which was largely descriptive. Data was analyzed by the use of frequencies and percentages and were presented in tables. The research revealed that the majority of lay leaders and church members agreed that divorce has become a problem threatening leadership position in the Roman Catholic Church. The Roman Catholic Church lay leaders should ensure that leader hip role i effective and efficient in the Roman Catholic Church. The study recommended that, divorce should be controlled by instituting the bible teachings on divorce, counseling by experts and also the Roman Catholic Church should discourage polygamous within Christians.
Factors influencing C.R.E performance in the church sponsored and public secondary schools: A case study of Ogendo Division Kisii County, Kenya
(KeMU, 2014-06) Amemba, Leah Kerubo
Christian Religious Education (CRE) is an academic subject in the school curriculum oncemed with religion. It traces its origin to the coming of the European missionaries. It is or instruction in various aspects of religion. According to Archbishop Dr. John Sentamu, _012), he acknowledges that CRE is important because it forms and creates a culture. In that respect, this survey study was carried out to evaluate its performance between church sponsored and public secondary schools in Ogembo division. The study was carried out with the main purpose of establishing the factors influencing performance in secondary schools in Ogembo Division. The objectives of the study were to identify factors influencing good performance of CRE in secondary schools in Ogembo Division, to establish the challenges which students of CRE encounter in Ogembo division, to establish the role of stake holders in the performance of CRE in church sponsored and public secondary schools in Ogembo division. The schools and respondents were selected using stratified and convenience sampling procedures. The target population used was 165 respondents. That included students, teachers and personnel involved in secondary school education in relation to CRE curriculum. Due to the need to achieve feasibility, the target population was reduced to a sample size by use of quota sampling and statistical sampling techniques under the influence of Morgan Table. The sample size used was 13 7 respondents of the target population. The sample of respondents were prepared through prior notice before collecting data. Piloting was done to test the questionnaires before collecting data. Data was collected by use of questionnaires of a primary level and interviews. Data was processed through editing, classification and categorization to make it possible for analysis. The data processed was analyzed by use of descriptive statistical models as well as calculating frequent percentages. The statistical package Social Sciences (SPSS Version 18), a computerized system for data analysis was used to analyze the data for the study. The study found out that the performance of CRE in both church sponsored and public secondary schools in Ogembo division were effective in ensuring timely access to learning resources, teachers and administration as well as students themselves having knowledge from the churches they attend. The study concluded that parents, teachers and students should be up held as they have ensured increased probability of accessing learning materials, trained staff etc, The study-recommends that the provision of learning materials and parents involvement considers as the key improvement which leads to better performance.
An investigation on the implementation on HIV/AIDS curriculum in high schools:A case of wundanyi division Taita Taveta County- Kenya
(KeMU, 2014-06) Salim, Mercy Wakio
Due to high prevalence of HIV among the youth aged 15-24 years (Barnet & Whiteside (2006) various governments have established strategies to educate the youth on social behavioral change. In Kenya the government introduced HIV / AIDS programme in various subjects like Biology, Agriculture, History, Languages and Religious education at secondary school level in the year 2000 (K.I.E, 1999). In Taita/Taveta District HIV/AIDS is of great concern. According to Kenya aids indicator survey (KAIS). In the year 2012, HIV prevalence rate among adults aged 15 to 64 years decreased nationally to 5.6% at the same time that for Taita Taveta County was reported to be at 6.4% this being slightly above the national prevalence rate. This study sought to investigate the implementation of HIVIAIDS curriculum in public high schools in Wundanyi Division. The sample size constituted 6 head teachers 15 teachers and 470 students which were selected as stratified random sample. The main tools of data collection were questionnaires, one for the teachers, one for students and an interview schedule for the Head teachers. A pilot test on instruments was conducted in two high schools. Validity of this study was ensured through consultations with research supervisors from Kenya Methodist University and also by marching the contents of the questionnaire items with the research objectives. A letter of introduction from Kenya Methodist University was provided which facilitated application for a research permit from the National Council of Science and Technology. After all the data was collected it was coded and entered in the computer for analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The teachers indicated that HIV/AIDS should be one of the topics covered under CRE. Since information on HIV/AIDS was inadequate. The methods used to teach HIV/AIDS are lecture, chat and talk as indicated by teachers. This may be due to the fact that the resources for HIV / AIDS education are inadequate according to teachers. Both students and teachers indicated that there is low motivation. Students use peer teaching, abstinence and condoms to curb the HIV / AIDS menace, though abstinence is the mostly used method. It was therefore concluded that peer teaching and abstinence are important in curbing HIV/AIDS menace. It was recommended that each school gets adequate HIV / AIDS curriculum copies and teaching resources should be made adequate. Teachers and students should be highly motivated on HIV / AIDS education.
The Ameru Traditional naming methods: The effects of Christianity and missionary education on traditional naming culture.
(KeMU, 2014-06) Kioga, Mburugu M'nkanata
In all human communities individuals are identified by names. The process by which these identities are stamped on the person depends on the cultures of the society where the person hails from. Traditionally the Ameru peoples had developed more than two naming methods. The first name of a boy or girl child was given by a caucus of elderly women from the village or family soon after the child was born. The second name given to a Boy-child was by warriors after initiation/circumcision when he was deemed to have attained adulthood. The girl-child never acquired a new or second name until after her marriage. But this traditional system only held sway before the advent of Christianity which invaded the African societies during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Thereafter Christianity supplanted traditional by injecting totally new and strange naming systems and nomenclatures. The research problem on this study therefore was to explore and explain the Ameru traditional naming methods and systems before the advent of Christianity and how these traditions were impacted by it thereafter. The scope of the study endeavors to answer the research questions and to investigate the problem statement in the research proposal and how to achieve the objectives of the study. The geographical area already covered and the targeted population encompass all the six Meru linguistic dialects spoken within the territorial area inhabited by the community. There is considerable scarcity of written literature on this topic within the entire East Africa Region. The research method which was designed for this study encompassed sample survey using purposive or judgmental method. The data collection methods comprised of key informants interviews, selected respondents for interview schedules and group discussion with identified community elders and sages. The questionnaires were administered by the researcher in person among the more literate young parents and youths. The target population was selected from the knowledgeable elderly members of the community from each linguistic dialects of the Meru peoples. Some older respondents who experienced early missionary conversion to Christianity were also interviewed on the methods adopted by the missionaries to convert the populace into Christianity. The limitation experienced in this research is that with scarce written records the researcher has to almost entirely rely on the fading memories of the older generation who are themselves fast fading away. It is therefore strongly recommended that in order to preserve the African traditions and cultures, the educated Africans do record their traditions in permanent records that will guide the future generations of our peoples.
Negative impact of family instability on pupil's academic achievement: A case study of Buuri District.
(KeMU, 2014-06) Julius, Rosemary Nkatha
Family relations and interactions have a strong and permanent influence upon a personality. Family structure affects pre-school readiness. It affects educational achievements at elementary, secondary and college levels. How parents treat their children has a direct impact on how children eventually see themselves. Children who are rejected by their parents, who grow up in homes with considerable conflicts, or who are inadequately supervised, are at the greatest risk of becoming delinquent. Whether a child's parents are married, divorced, single, remarried or cohabiting has a significant influence on children's educational performance. The purpose of this study is therefore to investigate the negative impact of family instability on learning among primary schools pupils in Buuri district. The researcher adopted descriptive survey and data collected using questionnaires. The target population was 20,982 respondents from 116 primary schools. A sample of 642 respondents was adopted. Simple random sampling was used to get 600 pupils from 21 schools, which was sampled using purposive and simple random methods. Twenty-one headteachers and twenty-one guidance and counseling teachers were purposively sampled from the twenty-one sample schools. The instruments were tested using test-retest formula. Data was analyzed using frequencies and percentages. The findings of the study revealed that most pupils came from unstable homes. Only 51 % of pupils came from relatively stable families. The rest, 49 %, either came from single-parent families, are orphaned, live with step parents, or their fathers are polygamous. This resulted to numerous challenges on the pupils, such as, lack of adequate attention from the available parent as well as chronic absenteeism from school. This consequently led to poor academic achievement.
The factors influencing the proliferation of new christian religious movements in Imenti South District, Meru County.
(KeMU, 2014-07) Joseph, M'arachi Miriti
ABSTRACT TITLE: FACTORS INFLUENCING PROLIFERATION OF NEW CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS MOVEMENTS IN IMENTI SOUTH DISTRICT, MERU COUNTY. AUTHOR: M’ARACHI MIRITI JOSEPH We live in a world where almost all human beings are yearning for deliverance from personal or collective suffering as a result of the prevailing evils. Consequently, people, despite innate pride of the human heart, are seeking Gods loving grace, a quest that has predisposed them to the teaching of any group that goes by the name "Christian". This has resulted in the proliferation of the new Christian religious movements - a common phenomenon in the world today, of which lrnenti South District is not an exception. The purpose of this study is to explore factors influencing the proliferation of new Christian religious movements in Imenti South District of Meru. Questionnaires and interviews were used to obtain the background information on the factors behind the new Christian religious movements, and the areas in which the mainstream churches are failing to satisfy the spiritual and other needs of their members. The study was carried out in Imenti South District. In both the 36 mainline churches and the new religious groups the questionnaires were given to church leaders, administrators and lay Christians. The researcher had a target population of 16200 Christians but reduced it to 3240. This number was further reduced to 648 for ease of management. Descriptive research design is used. Stratified sampling was used to select the respondents because they exist in several groups. The final sample size was reduced to 162 respondents, and to these the questionnaires were administered. The researcher used questionnaires and interviews as the main instruments for data collection from the pastors/leaders, men, women and the youth of the various churches. The responses were collected for analysis and the data compiled in tables, graphs and the pie -charts. In general, the study established the following as the reasons behind the attractiveness of the new Christian religious movements and their forms of worship to people in strongly religious and secular societies hunger for holiness; the leadership struggles characterized by lack of inclusivity of all necessary skills. Unsatisfied psychological and basic need the pursuing of material prosperity, Search for spiritual healing, Sense of belonging and life's meaning. The Recommendation was made based on the outcome of the study that there is a need to promote good spiritual and moral leaching based on biblical theology and acculturate to modern positive Christian ethical values. The further research can be done on biblical exegesis, roles of the church in transforming social life, the charismatic movement, and the importance of the Christian ethical values in the present society.
Factors affecting the participation of women in church leadership: A case study of Evangelical Lutheran church of Kenya, Ekerenyo Parish, Ekerenyo Division, Nyamira County-Kenya
(KeMU, 2015-06) Orina, Grace Moraa
ABSTRACT TITLE: FACTORS AFFECTING THE PARTICIPATION OF WOMEN IN CHURCH LEADERSHIP: A CASE OF EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF KENYA, EKERENYO PARISH, EKERENYO DIVISION NYAMIRA COUNTY-KENYA. AUTHOR: GRACE MORAA ORINA Gender disparities in management opportunities in Kenya are a real challenge to development. Despite growing participation by women in the workplace, there are still very few women in the top public decision and policy making positions in Kenya. The purpose of this study was to establish factors affecting women participation in church leadership at Evangelical Lutheran church of Kenya, Ekerenyo parish Nyamira County. The study was guided by the following objectives: to establish whether leadership empowerment programs inhibit women progression to top leadership at ELCK Ekerenyo parish, Nyamira County, to determine to what extent socio-economic status inhibit women progression to top leadership at ELCK Ekerenyo parish, Nyamira County, to assess whether affirmative action inhibit women progression to top leadership at ELCK Ekerenyo . parish, Nyamira County and to examine whether the gender stereotyping factors affect women progression to top leadership positions at ELCK Ekerenyo parish, Nyamira County. The study was guided by the Feminist theory which recognizes the pervasive influence of gender divisions on social life. The study employed descriptive survey design. Sample size of 76 out of a population of 254 church members was selected through simple random sampling. The study used test-re-test method to determine the validity and reliability of the instrument. The data collected was analyzed using qualitative and quantitative techniques with the help of Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS). The data was presented by use of percentages and frequencies. The findings of the study indicated that factors such as gender stereotyping, family responsibilities, lack of interest in management positions and low levels of the implementation of affirmative action adversely influence lack active participation of women in church management in Ekerenyo ELCK in Nyamira County. It was therefore concluded that unless such factors are looked into and corrected appropriately, the number of women actively participating in church leadership in Ekerenyo Parish will remain low compared to that of their male counterparts. The following recommendations were done in order to remedy the situation. Churches should encourage women to participate in church leadership position. The churches should review church doctrines, policies and practices that hinder or discourage women from participating in church leadership. The churches should come up with more affirmative action policies at the church and ensure that they are implemented in order to correct gender imbalance and to guarantee women opportunities for participation in church leadership positions and policy making. It was believed that once the recommendation have been put in place as expected then this may attract more women in church leadership in Ekerenyo ELCK parish in Nyamira County.
A comparative study of the effects of drug abuse among boys and girls in seventh day Adventist church sponsored secondary schools in Borabu sub-county Nyamira county Kenya
(KeMU, 2015-06) Suleiman, Mary Moraa
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of drug abuse between boys and girls in selected Seventh - day Adventist church sponsored secondary schools of Borabu sub - county, Nyamira County, Kenya. The study sought to establish the types or drugs abused, examine the main effects of drug abuse, analyze the physical psychological and social effects of drug abuse and to compare the level of effects of drug abuse among boys and girls in selected secondary schools in Borabu sub _ county, Nyamira County, Kenya. A descriptive survey design was used in this study. The target population was all the 22 public secondary schools in the sub-County. The sample of the study comprised of 15 secondary schools chosen through stratified random sampling. Census sampling was used to select 15 principals, 150 HODs, and 15 chaplain / counselors. Data was collected through Interviews for principals and questionnaires for HODs, and chaplains/ counselors. The validity of the instruments was established through scrutiny by experts who were thesis supervisors. Test-retest method was used to establish reliability of the instruments. A correlation coefficient of 0.86 and 0.87 for HODs, and chaplains/ counselors questionnaires was established respectively. The qualitative data from interview schedule was analyzed thematically and reported in narrative and direct quotes. The data from questionnaires was analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) computer program version+ 20.0 and descriptive statistics generated. Specifically, percentages, means, and standard deviation. The major findings of the study indicated that girls are the most affected as compared to the boys in the selected secondary schools. The implications of these findings were that, because girls mostly use the injectable drugs they were more injected than boys. The Study, therefore recommended that; in order to enhance health among students quality close assistance from the school authority is required.