The Influence Of Gender On The Attitude Of Teachers Towards Outlawing Of Corporal Punishment In Primary Schools In Nandi North District

Abstract

The abolishment of corporal punishment without finding effective alternative methods of managing behavior in pupils has led to indiscipline and conflicts in primary schools in Kenya. The study sought to establish whether there is any influence of gender on the attitude of teachers towards outlawing of corporal punishment in primary schools in Nandi North District. The population of the study comprised of primary school teachers in Nandi North district. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population was 713 teachers, however, the sample size was 217 teachers selected through stratified sample random sampling techniques whereby schools were grouped according to their various characteristics and participating schools picked randomly by lottery method to ensure equal chances of participation with the selected schools. Data was collected by use of closed-ended questionnaire and interview schedules. Data was then analyzed by use of frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test whether there is an influence of teachers' gender, on attitudes towards the outlawing of corporal punishment in Nandi North district primary schools. Results of the study showed gender had significant influence on teachers' attitudes towards outlawing of corporal punishment in schools. In view of the findings, the study recommends a need to create awareness on alternative methods to corporal punishment and also the overall effects of corporal punishment on the child. Key Terms: Gender, Attitude, corporal punishment, influence