INFLUENCE OF MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROGRAMMES IN ELDORET WEST UASIN GISHU COUNTY.

Abstract

This study set out to establish influence of management functions on the implementations of early childhood education policies in Eldoret west, Uasin Gishu County. The objectives of the study were, to assess influence of training on implementation of ECDE, to establish how staffing influence implementation of ECDE, to determine influence of planning on implementation of ECDE and to identify effect of coordination on implementation of ECDE. The study was informed by Max Webers’ bureaucratic theory which states the five principle roles of Planning, Organizing, Commanding, Coordinating and Controlling of management are crucial in the implementation of the policy. The study was motivated by the fact that there has been an outcry from stakeholders on the management and implementations of ECDE Policy. There are gaps that need to be filled for efficiency and effectiveness of ECDE’s. The target population included 185 ECDE trained teachers and 236 Parents/Guardians. The sample size was 55 ECDE teachers and 70 guardians because this represents 30% of each category in all 139 ECD centers in Eldoret west, Uasin Gishu County. Random sampling technique was used to select teachers while systematic Random Technique was used to select guardians. Data for this study was collected using questionnaires administered personally by the researcher. In addition, observation and interview schedules were also used. Descriptive methods were employed in analyzing qualitative data where frequencies and proportions were used in interpreting the respondent’s perception of issues raised in the questionnaires so as to answer the research questions. Findings show that training, staffing, planning and co-ordination had a positive influence on implementation of early childhood education in ECDE centers. The recommendations are that ECDC’s should acquire knowledge through training of all stake holders that will enhance effective policy implementations and ensure holistic development of ECD learners.