INVESTIGATION OF FACTORS INFLUENCING CHOICE OF FRENCH AS AN EXAMINATION SUBJECT IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS, NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

ABSTRACT Despite the significant increase in number of schools offering French as an examination subject. The number of students enrolling and choosing French as a KCSE examination subject remains dismal. Yet, French is the third most globally spoken language and taught in Kenya. French is one of the three optional language subjects taught and examined in schools. It is in the basis of this that the study specifically sought to establish the extent personal factors influence choice of French. Find out to what extent academic factors influence choice. Thirdly, extent social factors influence choice of French as well as the extent career factors influence choice of French as an examination subject. Lastly, what strategies can be employed to improve choice of French as an examination subject in public schools in Nairobi County, Kenya? The research was guided by two theories of motivation: The Social Psychological Motivation Theory and SelfDetermination Motivation Theory. It adopted a convergent parallel mixed Methods design and the survey descriptive design for the quantitative approach while phenomenology design was used for the qualitative approach. The target population comprised all students all teachers of French and all career masters from 28 public secondary schools offering French in Nairobi County. The study used probability and non-probability sampling techniques to sample students and teachers. Validity of the research instruments was ascertained through a pilot study, and a re-test of the instruments. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics while content analysis was employed for qualitative data. Data presentation involved use of frequency tables. The study found out that 61% to 69% of students enrolled for French in Form 1, are likely to drop out before KCSE examinations. Further findings showed that those who manage to take French to completion, are largely motivated by a mix of personal, academic, schoolbased and social factors. The study recommends that schools organize interactive sessions with French professionals, stakeholders to collaborate and cooperate to review and adjust curricula that promote choice of French. The Ministry of Education provides necessary instructional materials and investment in French to increase retention of students and increase number of students being examined at KCSE level. The research findings indicate need for conducting a review of school policies, adopting information technology and integrating it into learning. Lastly, creating more out-of-class activities where students can practice oral speaking