Influence of School Discipline Policies on Students Academic Performance in Rwandan Secondary Schools

Abstract

The study explores the influence of school discipline policies on students’ academic performance in secondary schools in Rwanda. This research was guided by a broad objective: The research aimed to analyze the impact of school discipline policies on the academic performance of students in selected secondary schools while also directing specific objectives: to examine how the administration of school rules and regulations contributes to students’ academic performance; to examine how the students’ restorative practices and management influence students ‘academic performance; and to interpret the correlation between the secondary school discipline policies and students academic performance. This study was guided by McGregor’s theories x and y. The fundamental concepts in McGregor's Theory X and Y encompass rules and regulations, disciplinary actions, primarily punishments, and time management, particularly in the context of school punishment administration. In applying McGregor’s theory to this study, the main variables were school rules and regulations for efficient management and administration of punishments to students who do not abide by school rules and regulations and time management, which refers to the effective utilization of time allocated to individual activities in an education institution. The study was conducted in secondary schools with a population of 599, including students, teachers, the deputy head in charge of discipline, and head teachers. By using the Slovin formula, a sample size of 239 was used in this study, and stratified sampling was used so that each category would be represented. A descriptive design was used where both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Secondary data were obtained through documentation, library, and internet research. Primary data were collected using a questionnaire, an interview guide, and documentary analysis. Data were presented in tabulation formats and interpreted using the statistical package for social science (SPSS). The major findings of the study revealed that proper administration and management of school rules and regulations positively influence students' academic performance; restorative practices in schools, such as providing punishment, guidance, and counseling, influence students' academic performances. Finally, the study revealed a significant relationship between school discipline policies and students’ academic performance in secondary schools in Rwanda. Therefore, the study took the following as major recommendations: developing common measures for school discipline policies; enhancing the monitoring and evaluation of the rules and regulations' applicability; and establishing guidance and counseling services in schools.