Physical Facilities for Holistic Education: Lessons from Secondary Schools in Kiambu and Samburu Counties, Kenya

Abstract

This paper is premised on the background that majority of researchers and educationists who have contributed to the discourse on education for sustainability seem to be in agreement that management of physical facilities  are critical ingredients in achieving holistic and sustainable education. The study examined the application of physical facilities   as determinants of holistic education in Kiambu and Samburu Counties, Kenya. The study employed an explanatory mixed methods research design, using a sample size of 707 respondents. The main research instruments used to collect data were questionnaires, interview guides and observation checklists. The findings revealed mixed results with principals attaching higher premium than the senior teachers and students on   the use of physical facilities as a determinant of holistic education. The test of hypothesis revealed a significant relationship between physical facilities and holistic education. The regression analysis corroborated by qualitative data from interviews and observations led to the conclusion that the use of academic and non-academic dynamics such as physical facilities were viable and timely ingredients for sustainable and holistic educational development. It was thus recommended that educationists and school leaders and managers should   adopt a well-balanced combinations of academic and non-academic variables such as physical facilities and environmental management in designing holistic education to replace the traditional use of only academic excellence.

Key words: Education, Environment, Physical facilities, sustainable development, Kenya.