INFLUENCE OF PRINCIPALS’ CHARACTERISTICS ON INTEGRATION OF ICT IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN MACHAKOS SUB-COUNTY
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The study aimed to investigate the influence of principals’ characteristics on the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in public secondary schools in Machakos Sub-County, Kenya.
Problem Statement: Despite government efforts and ICT policies, many public secondary schools in Kenya still experience significant delays in effective ICT integration for teaching, learning, and management.
Methodology: A descriptive research design was employed. Data were collected using questionnaires administered to Heads of Departments and interviews conducted with principals. Reliability of instruments was tested using Cronbach’s Alpha. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
Findings: The results revealed that principals’ characteristics—age, gender, technological background, academic qualification, and administrative experience—significantly influenced ICT integration in public secondary schools.
Conclusion: Principals’ demographic and professional attributes play a critical role in determining the extent and effectiveness of ICT integration within secondary school settings.
Recommendation: The study recommends continuous training and capacity-building programs for school managers to enhance their ICT competencies and strengthen their administrative effectiveness in promoting digital adoption in schools.
Key words: ICT integration, IT, principal’s characteristics, public secondary schools, principals
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