Sitting Lay Out Attributes of the Boards of Management for Effective Curriculum Accountability in the Public Secondary Schools in Kenya: A Case of Njoro Sub-County

Abstract

The purpose of this observational research paper was to inquire into the sitting lay out attributes of Boards of Management with a view to enhancing their curriculum accountability in the public secondary schools in Kenya. Active participation by BOM members is critical in ensuring effective curriculum accountability in the public education sector in Kenya. It had been observed that most BOM members in Njoro Sub-County remained passive and indifferent during BOM meetings despite their prompt attendance. However, this phenomenon had not been empirically inquired into despite its contemporary significance. The study was conducted in 20 sampled public secondary schools in Njoro Sub-County using structured observational schedules. Data coding and analysis was carried out and presented in these schedules, with 50% serving as a critical score for either positivity or negativity during interpretations. It was found out that effective participation of the BOM members was largely a function of the meeting venues, meeting duration, sitting lay-outs, dressing code, body language, the intervening factors, use of ICT devices and the welfare provisions during BOM meetings. BOM members did not prioritize on Curriculum and instruction as key agenda during deliberations. Therefore, there was low consideration of curriculum accountability in the meetings. Some members remained passive and indifferent during BOM meetings. Most BOM meetings took place in school boardrooms which were convenient. Most members displayed naturalness and being at-ease during the meetings. However, a few members displayed tension and reservedness. Majority of the members were decently but not officially dressed. Majority of the BOM ensured basic welfare provision of the members present. Therefore sitting lay out attributes of the BOMs were significant determinants of effective curriculum accountability in the public secondary schools in Njoro Sub-County-Kenya.