Effects of community involvement on academic performance of primary school pupils

Abstract

The aim of the survey was to establish the effects of community involvement in academic programs in selected primary schools of Katakwi District namely Toroma girls, Toroma boys, Angodingodi, Akisim primary school. The objectives that guided the study included; to examine the extent of community involvement in the learning needs of their children, to find out factors affecting the academic performance of primary school pupils and to analyze the challenges of community involvement in school activities. The methods that were used in gathering new data included a descriptive study design, use of a simple sampling technique, Questionnaire and interviews were used as data collection methods and instruments. Data was analyzed manually with use of statistical bar graphs and charts; the researcher sought consent from the respondents and guaranteed them liberty when participating in the exercise was utmost ethical consideration used. The findings of the study included; the extent of community involvement in the learning needs of their children is low. However, this limited perspective overlooks the fact that much of a child’s life and education occurs outside the classroom. The factors affecting the academic performance of primary school pupils included: Financial Resources and Academic Performance, Human Resource and Academic Performance, among others. Challenges faced included; poverty, unlimited resources, lack of enough awareness of the practice, among others. Major conclusions drawn included; the extent of community involvement in the learning needs of their children is upsetting. The factors affecting the academic performance of primary school pupils are common syndromes and the challenges faced are manageable in nature. Some of the recommendations included; Ministry of education needs to review some of their education policies especially on community involvement in the learning needs of their children.