The Influence of Communication Practices on Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools: A Case Study of Matuga Sub- County, Kwale County, Kenya

Maryanne Obonyo Imelda & Beth Mwelu Mutilu
School of Education
Mount Kenya University
Email: imeldaobonyo2@gmail.com

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the influence of communication practices employed by principals in public secondary schools on academic performance within Matuga Sub-County, Kenya. The study focused on three key areas: determining the influence of setting school performance targets, investigating how communicating goals and standards influence students’ performance, and examining how conducting feedback forums influence students’ performance. Using a descriptive research design, the study targeted all the 34 principals, 758 teachers, and 20, 090 pupils at public secondary schools in Matuga Sub-County. Sample size was determined using Nassiuma’s 2008 and Daniel’s (1999) formulae. Data was collected from 101 teachers and 410 students through structured and unstructured questionnaires respectively. Piloting was conducted in Kinango Boys’ secondary school in Kinango sub county. Data analysis entailed descriptive statistics. The study results demonstrate that principals’ communication practices significantly influence academic performance. Both teachers and students consistently reported frequent utilization of these communication practices on academic performance. The findings indicated consensus among teachers and students regarding the clarity of educational targets and the importance of involving staff in goal development. Both groups also recognized the value of using student performance data for academic goal setting. However, a slight variance in perceptions emerged concerning the effectiveness of communicating the school’s mission, with teachers holding a more positive view than students. The findings may contribute to academic literature and practical use in school community fraternity i.e., principals, deputy principals, senior teachers, heads of departments, entire teachers, and students with goal of enhancing the academic performance.