Integrating Computer Science Education in Kenyan Secondary Schools

For many years science educators in Kenyan secondary schools hoped that the use of science apparatus supplied by Science Equipment Production unit (SEPU) would substantially help teachers to provide students with efficient and effective opportunities to learn science, products, and processes. But this has not improved students‟ performances in examinations. Research findings from developed countries have pointed out the capabilities of computers to improve students‟ scientific knowledge. This happens when students are taught to use computers as tools for thinking, creating and adapt computers to fit their own needs such as students written simulations, science interfacing. Computers have now been available in Kenyan secondary schools for over ten years. This article presents the results of a study that investigated the use of computers in teaching and learning science in public secondary schools in Kenya. The purpose of the study was to find out if science teachers use computers to help improve the quality of science education. Related literature for this study revealed that teaching/learning science subjects with computer helps to improve students performance in examination. This study was based on a descriptive survey. The area of study was Kisumu Municipality and the study population consisted of 22 head teachers, 1200students and 44science teachers. Saturated sampling was used to select a sample of 20 head teachers, while purposive sampling was used to select a sample of 20 science teachers. At the same time, simple random sampling was used to select a sample of 400 students. Data was collected by use of questionnaire, document analysis guide and observation schedule. Data analysis involved use of descriptive statistics that included graphics, percentages and frequencies. The finding showed that there was inadequate provision of computers in secondary schools. Very few science teachers used computers in teaching/learning science. The study recommended that Head teachers should purchase more computes and provide adequate facilities such as computer laboratory, and trained manpower.