The influence of personal attributes on demand for bachelor of education degree among non-graduate teachers in Trans-nzoia county, Kenya

Abstract

There has been a rapid expansion in the field of of higher education. This has been precipitated by factors of demand and supply leading to various innovations in programmes and modes of study. A new trend has emerged where a wide scope of working professionals, including teachers are undertaking continuing education. To teach at the primary level in Kenya, a Primary 1 (P1) certificate is minimum requirement. However, a significant number of teachers at this level either hold or are pursuing a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree. As of December 2016, of the 4,406 teachers in public primary schools in Trans-Nzoia, 896 possessed a B.Ed. degree. Despite the minimum qualifications for the primary school level teaching, there is concern over the increasing number of teachers pursuing B.Ed. degree without corresponding improvement in learner performance in KCPE where the mean mark has remained below 250 for over a decade. The purpose of this study was to determine the personal attributes that influence demand for a Bachelor of Education degree in Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya. The findings indicated that personal attributes, occupational, institutional and socio-economic factors all account for the surge in demand for B.Ed. degree although the economic factor is the most important one. The study also found that teachers’ qualifications have a significantly low effect on learners’ academic performance. The findings will help policymakers and educational planners plan for relevant, efficient, effective, equitable and quality education.