Head Teachers’ Computer Competency and Computerized Management Systems Adoption in Public Primary Schools, Kadibo Division, Kenya

Abstract

Introduction of education management information systems may contribute to improved management and academic performance. Kenyan schools however still use manual record keeping for daily managerial activities. Relationship between head teacher computer competencies and computerized managerial systems adoption in Kadibo, Kisumu County, Kenya is not known. This study aimed at determining relationships between head teacher computer competencies and adoption of computerized management systems in public primary schools in Kadibo division. A descriptive survey design was employed on a target population of42 schools. Simple random sampling was used to select 20 schools out of which respective head teachers responded. Spearman`s correlation analysis was used to determine the relationships. The instrument was reliable (𝑎=.86) using test-retest. Found that level of head teachers computer competency as low (60%);and level of computerized managerial systems adoption equally low(50%). Correlation between head teacher computer competency and computerized managerial systems adoption 𝑟𝑠=−.092was negative and nonsignificant. Study evidenced both low head teacher computer competencies and low adoption of computerized managerial systems. This low head teacher computer competencies tended to reduce computerized managerial systems adoption though the relationship was insignificant. Concluded that the relationship between head teacher computer competencies and adoption of computerized management systems was negative and nonsignificant. Recommended training of head teachers and other key school staff on ICTs in order to enhance computerized management systems adoption. The study has school managerial implications in public primary schools.