The Role of Regional-Based Students Associations on Educational Socialization Outcomes among Students in Selected Universities in Nairobi County Kenya

Ng’ae Priscilla Murugi – Department of Educational Psychology and Technology, Mount Kenya University, Kenya
Dr. Francis Kirimi – Department of Educational Management, Kenyatta University, Kenya
Dr. Susan Macharia – Department of Educational Psychology and Technology, Mount Kenya University, Kenya Corresponding Author: priscillangae@gmail.com

Abstract: All over the world, people in various societies are known to form associations that bring them together. University students form such associations which enrich their social, cultural and educational conformity. Members of students’ associations usually portray better self and collective discipline and less maladaptive behaviour. However, not much is known about the role regional-based associations in influencing specific students’ educational socialization outcomes. Thus, the study to answer the role of role of Regional- Based Students’ Associations on Educational Socialization Outcomes among Students in Selected Universities in Nairobi County-Kenya? Using a Mixed Methodology approach and a sample size of 268, the study employed stratified random sampling technique to come up with a sample representing both public and private universities, purposive sampling technique to come up with a sample of deans of students. The simple random sampling technique to come with a sample of individual associations’ members as respondents. Data was gathered using observation checklist and questionnaire for students and interview schedule for deans of students. The study found that most students (75%) like participating in regional-based associations’ activities. There was influence of regional-based associations on connecting with others, building self-esteem, behaviour conformity and career conformity. The deans of students affirmed that the associations help to identify and nurture students’ leadership skills.