Abstract:
Many methods are used to enhance discipline in secondary schools. Among
them are corporal punishment, guidance and counselling, psychological
punishment and suspension from school. The use of corporal punishment was
banned by the government and teachers were expected to use alternative
methods. The opinion of the students on this matter was not sought. The main
purpose of this study was to investigate students’ perception of the
effectiveness of the methods used to enhance discipline in public schools in
Nyahururu division of Laikipia West District. The descriptive survey method
was used. From a population of 2497 students, a sample of 333 was selected
using the proportionate, stratified and simple random sampling methods.
Data was collected using a self-administered student questionnaire
developed by the researchers. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the
data. The results showed that students perceived guidance and counselling as
more effective in enhancing discipline than other methods. The study also
revealed that factors such as age, grade and type of school affected students’
perception of the effectiveness of the various methods. From the study it was
recommended that a good student-teacher relationship be cultivated in
schools and guidance and counselling be enhanced.
