Relationship between selected student motivation cultures and student academic achievement in secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between selected student motivation cultures and academic achievement in secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. The target population was comprised of all KCSE 2021 candidates and all principals of secondary schools in the County. The study used an outlier approach and the multistage sampling technique. The sample size consisted of 2214 students and 80 principals of schools. Data was collected using questionnaires and document analysis. Instruments were adapted for use after carrying out a test re-test procedure. Cronbach Alpha Coefficient of above 0.7 was obtained. Validity was ensured with the assistance of the supervisors. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 27 and was analysed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics (Spearman rank correlations and Regression analysis). Quantitative results were presented in tables and qualitative results in prose. Private schools showed a stronger link between student motivation cultures and academic achievement than public schools. In high-achieving KCSE public and private secondary schools, the Spearman rank correlation analysis indicated a moderate positive correlation for public schools and a strong positive correlation for private schools between student motivation cultures and academic achievement. However, when assessing the relationship between student motivation cultures and student academic achievement in low-performing KCSE public and private secondary schools, the results differ. The study recommends that the school management should consider investing in student motivation cultures that enhance student academic achievement.